FDA Recalls Pasta Sauces Over Potential Botulism Risk as Holiday Food Prep Begins

FDA Issues Recall of Tomato Sauces Over Botulism Risk

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of several tomato sauce products sold in Connecticut and Massachusetts due to possible contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria responsible for botulism.

Products and Distribution Details

Cause of Recall

The FDA explained that the sauces were produced "without an approved schedule process," indicating the sterilization steps needed to destroy C. botulinum spores may not have been correctly applied.

Health Risks of Botulism

Botulism is one of the most serious foodborne illnesses, as the bacterial toxin can block nerve function and cause paralysis, including respiratory failure.

Symptoms usually develop within 12 to 36 hours after eating contaminated food and include fatigue, blurred vision, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and stomach pain.

Consumer Guidance

The FDA advises consumers not to eat these sauces. Instead, they should return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Summary

This recall highlights the critical importance of proper sterilization in food manufacturing to prevent life-threatening risks such as botulism, especially during peak holiday food preparation periods.

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Business Times Business Times — 2025-11-06

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