The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued its highest risk warning—Class I recall—for a pumpkin juice product potentially contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium that causes botulism, a serious and sometimes deadly illness.
What’s Happening?
Walker’s Wine Juice LLC, based in Forestville, New York, recalled its pumpkin juice on March 28 after tests showed a risk of contamination. The juice was distributed in 12 states including:
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- New York
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Wisconsin
Why Is This Important?
Botulism is a dangerous form of food poisoning caused by toxins from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It can cause symptoms such as:
- Weakness and dizziness
- Double vision
- Trouble speaking or swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Muscle weakness
- Abdominal swelling and constipation
About 10 foodborne botulism outbreaks occur yearly in the U.S., making this a serious health concern.
Details of the Recall
The recalled pumpkin juice comes in:
- 2.5- and 5-gallon boxes
- Bulk containers of 30, 60, and 275 gallons
All lots and codes are included, totaling 1,466 gallons of juice affected. The recall is still ongoing.
No illnesses had been reported as of April 1, according to Walker’s Wine Juice.
The recall was triggered after New York state inspectors found the juice’s pH level was too high for the “hot fill” packaging process, meaning the juice was not properly sterilized to kill bacteria.
Expert Insights
The World Health Organization (WHO) explains that botulism is rare but very serious, caused by toxins produced in contaminated foods. It cannot be spread from person to person.
The FDA notes that Clostridium botulinum only causes illness if it grows and produces toxins, which can happen in improperly processed canned foods, meat, and fish products. Refrigeration helps but only if temperatures are carefully controlled.
What Should Consumers Do?
If you have this pumpkin juice, do not consume it. If you experience symptoms like weakness, vision problems, or difficulty breathing, seek medical help immediately.
