Tomato Sauce Recall Due to Botulism Risk
First and Last Bakery, LLC of Hartford, Connecticut, is recalling certain tomato sauce products amid concerns over possible botulism contamination. The recall follows a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) alert highlighting the risk.
Products Involved in the Recall
The affected products are tomato sauces packaged in 26-ounce jars, with a use-by date of September 2026. These items were distributed primarily in Connecticut and Massachusetts through the Big Y supermarket chain and possibly other retailers from September 22 to October 28.
Reason for Recall
According to the FDA, these sauces were “manufactured without an approved scheduled process or otherwise evaluated to determine if the process is adequate.” Improper processing of acidified or low-acid canned foods can allow the formation of Clostridium botulinum, which produces deadly toxins.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Botulism, a rare but potentially fatal food poisoning, can cause serious symptoms. The FDA outlines possible effects including:
- General weakness
- Dizziness
- Double vision
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
- Breathing problems
- Muscle weakness
- Abdominal bloating
- Constipation
“They were manufactured without an approved scheduled process or otherwise evaluated to determine if the process is adequate,” according to the FDA notice.
So far, no cases of illness have been linked to these products.
About the Author
Michele Laufik is a freelance lifestyle writer and editor specializing in beauty, health, food, travel, and relationships.
Summary
The First and Last Bakery recalls select tomato sauces due to botulism concerns stemming from potentially inadequate processing, though no illnesses have been reported.