Article Body
NOTE: CDC and FDA are reminding consumers to check their cupboards for Castleberry’s canned foods that have been recalled as a result of botulism contamination. No botulism cases related to the recalled products have been identified in South Dakota.
SOUTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, August 03, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, August 03, 2007
CONTACT: Lon Kightlinger, (605) 773-3737
Consumers reminded of canned food recall for botulism contamination
PIERRE, S.D. – Health officials are reminding consumers to check their cupboards for canned foods recalled as a result of botulism contamination. In July cases of human botulism were reported in Texas, Indiana and California and were associated with eating canned chili sauce. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration investigated and issued a recall of several products manufactured by the Castleberry’s Food Company. Additionally, this week Lakeside Foods is withdrawing canned green beans due to possible botulism contamination.
“While no cases have been identified in South Dakota, the contaminated products may have been distributed in our state, too,” said Dr. Lon Kightlinger, State Epidemiologist for the Department of Health. “We strongly urge all consumers, charitable organizations, food banks, and retailers to check the canned food in their kitchens and pantries.”
A complete list of recalled products is available on the Food and Drug Administration website at www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/castleberry08_07.html.
Food-borne botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by consuming foods that are contaminated with a nerve toxin called botulinum toxin. Botulinum toxin is produced by the germ Clostridium botulinum. This toxin affects the nervous system and can cause paralysis and death. Any food that may be contaminated with botulinum toxin should be discarded using extreme care. Even a tiny amount of toxin that is eaten or absorbed through a break in the skin or the eye can cause serious illness.
Consumers should not open or puncture any unopened can of the recalled product. Put the can of potentially contaminated food in a sealable bag, place it in another plastic bag, tape it shut and throw it into the trash where animals can’t get to it.
There is no need to return cans to stores. For refunds and answers to questions, consumers should contact the Castleberry’s consumer hotline at 1-800-203-4412 or visit www.castleberrys.com .