FDA Recalls Tomato Sauces Over Botulism Risk
The Food and Drug Administration has recalled several tomato sauce products sold in Connecticut and Massachusetts due to potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium that causes botulism. This recall affects products from First and Last Bakery, LLC, based in Hartford.
Affected Products
- Original Marinara Sauce (Tomato & Basil)
- Original Traditional Pasta Sauce (Meat Flavored)
- Original Puttanesca Sauce (Mildly Hot & Spicy)
All are packaged in 26-fluid-ounce jars with a use-by date of September 2026. These jars were distributed on September 22, 2025, at Big Y and Stop & Shop locations.
Reason for Recall
The sauces were produced "without an approved schedule process," meaning the sterilization steps necessary to kill C. botulinum spores may not have been fully followed.
The FDA advises consumers: "Do not eat the products and return them to the store for a full refund."
Health Risks of Botulism
Botulism is a rare but extremely serious foodborne illness. The toxin from the bacterium blocks nerve signals, which can lead to paralysis and respiratory failure.
Early symptoms usually arise within 12 to 36 hours after ingestion and include fatigue, blurred vision, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and abdominal discomfort.
Summary
This recall highlights the critical need for strict sterilization in food production to prevent dangerous botulism outbreaks that can cause severe paralysis and even death.
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