Williams-Sonoma brand Pesto Sauce Botulism Recall Issued
The Food and Drug Administration has announced that Sutter, California -based California Olive and Vine, LLC has issued a voluntary recall of their Pumpkin Seed Pesto products, which are sold at Willams-Sonoma stores nationwide, including those in Texas.
The company decided to take what it refers to as a “precautionary measure” because of internal lab test results indicating that the jarred pesto sauce may have been processed improperly, which could make the jars prone to contamination with Clostridium botulinum bacteria, which can lead to botulism.
These jars of pesto sauce were processed September 14, 2014 and later, and they were distributed under the Williams-Sonoma label. The sauce is sold in 8-ounce glass jars, and have SKU numbers of 6404305 and 6389043. In its announcement the company notes that there have been no reports of illness associated with this product, and that the recall is being undertaken solely out of concern for the safety of their customers. They also note that no other products, including other pumpkin-based products they produced, and which are extremely popular this time of year, have been affected.
Ingesting food contaminated with Clostridium botulinum bacteria can contract botulism, which can be a very serious illness, and can often lead to death. Among the most common symptoms of botulism include dizziness, weakness, difficulty breathing, speaking and/or swallowing, double vision, but can also include distension of the abdomen, constipation and even possible muscular problems.
People who have purchased this product are being instructed to not use it, even if it looks and smells fine. Instead, they should either throw the product away or return it to the store for a full refund. Those who may have any of these symptoms should get medical help immediately, because they can lead to even worse symptoms later on.
If you have purchased this sauce, be sure to follow the recall instructions carefully. Botulism is a very serious illness, and cannot be taken lightly. If you or a loved one has become ill, and you believe it’s because you ate any type of contaminated food product, see a medical professional as soon as possible, then please contact the Texas Food Poisoning Injury Lawyer at Hill Law Firm, so that we can conduct a thorough investigation into the problem and help you protect your rights.