FDA: Urgent 'do not eat' warning over paralysis-causing bacteria
THE DETAILS …
On March 7, 2025, a recall was issued for several varieties of pre-cut Japanese pickles produced by California-based Choshiya Honten Ltd., due to potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium capable of causing botulism—a severe illness that can lead to paralysis or even death. The affected products, including Shiba Zuke, Aokappa Zuke, Fukushin Zuke, Soft Tsubozuke, Rakkyo Zuke, and Choshiya's Abura-Itame Zhasai prepared vegetables, were distributed to Tokyo Central/Marukai stores across California cities like San Diego, Torrance, Gardena, Los Angeles, Costa Mesa, and West Covina. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has urged consumers to discard or return these items for a full refund, emphasizing the serious health risks posed by the bacterium, which thrives in low-oxygen environments and produces deadly toxins.
Clostridium botulinum contamination is particularly alarming because its toxins can trigger botulism, a rare but life-threatening condition. Symptoms include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, and difficulty speaking or swallowing, with the potential for respiratory and muscle paralysis if untreated. The FDA warns that even a few micrograms of the toxin can sicken a healthy adult, and prompt medical attention is critical for anyone exhibiting these signs. AKT Trading Inc., linked to the distribution, issued a statement asserting their commitment to safety and framing the recall as a precautionary measure, though this does little to mitigate the gravity of the situation for consumers who may have already purchased the pickles.
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The recall underscores broader concerns about food safety in processed and packaged goods, particularly those imported or prepared under specific conditions that might foster bacterial growth. While no illnesses have been officially tied to this specific recall as of March 7, 2025, the potential for undetected cases looms large, given the severity of botulism and its delayed symptom onset. This incident follows other recent food safety scares, such as a canned tuna recall last month, highlighting vulnerabilities in the supply chain. Consumers are left questioning the reliability of such products, while regulators and companies scramble to restore trust—though the effectiveness of these efforts remains uncertain against the backdrop of such a potent threat.