A significant recall has been announced for a pumpkin juice product distributed by Walker’s Wine Juice, affecting 12 different states. The recall was instigated by concerns surrounding potential contamination with botulism toxin, a rare but potentially fatal agent.

Details of the Recall

The Forestville, New York-based company, Walker’s Wine Juice, issued the recall on a recent Tuesday after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported the contamination risk. The recalled pumpkin juice was identified as being unsafely processed, raising concerns over food safety.

Health Risks Associated with Botulism

Botulism is classified as a dangerous form of food poisoning that can result in severe health issues. The FDA outlines symptoms that may arise, which include:

• General weakness
• Dizziness
• Double vision
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Breathing issues
• Muscle weakness
• Abdominal distension
• Constipation

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the toxin can disrupt nerve function, leading to paralysis and, in extreme cases, death.

Distribution and Product Details

The pumpkin juice is sold primarily to commercial wineries and is also available at a retail location in New York. The specific products involved in the recall include:

• 5-gallon hot packs
• 2.5-gallon bags-in-box
• Bulk containers of 30, 60, and 275 gallons

This product was distributed to select commercial wineries in states such as Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

Reason for Recall

The recall stemmed from an inspection conducted by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, which discovered that the pumpkin juice’s pH level exceeded safe limits, indicating a failure in processing that could allow for microbiological hazards to persist.

Following the inspection findings, it was concluded that the juice had not undergone an adequate kill step during processing, which is necessary to ensure safety from such toxins.

Response and Next Steps

Matt Walker, the plant manager for Walker’s Wine Juice, confirmed that all relevant commercial wineries were informed prior to the announcement and assured that no affected product remains available for sale. As of now, there have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of the recalled pumpkin juice.

If you have purchased any of the affected products, the FDA recommends contacting the company for guidance on safe disposal and potential reimbursement procedures.