The FDA has issued a major recall for prepared vegetable products sold in California due to the risk of Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that produces the potentially deadly botulinum toxin. Consuming affected products could lead to botulism, a rare but life-threatening illness that requires immediate medical attention.
What Is Botulism?
Botulism occurs when the toxin attacks the nervous system, leading to muscle paralysis, breathing difficulties, and even death. Symptoms may appear within hours or days after ingestion and include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Muscle weakness
- Blurred or double vision
- Drooping eyelids
- Slurred speech
- Shortness of breath
- Paralysis
Foodborne botulism can also cause:
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
In infants, symptoms include:
- Constipation
- Weak cries
- Poor feeding
- Lack of facial expression
Recalled Products
The recall, issued by AKT Trading Inc., involves the following products, which lacked proper refrigeration labeling, increasing the risk of bacterial growth:
Brand: Japanese Pickles (1 lb. plastic bags)
- SHIBA ZUKE PREPARED MIX VEGETABLES – UPC: 4582207535128, Exp: 8/27/2025
- AOKAPPA ZUKE PREPARED MIX VEGETABLES – UPC: 4582207535135, Exp: 5/14/2025
- FUKUSHIN ZUKE PREPARED MIX VEGETABLES – UPC: 4582207535142, Exp: 7/9/2025, 5/31/2025
- SOFT TSUBOZUKE PREPARED MIX VEGETABLES – UPC: 4582207535159, Exp: 7/29/2025
- RAKKYO ZUKE PREPARED VEGETABLES – UPC: 4983673526021, Exp: 8/1/2025, 7/1/2025
Brand: CHOSHIYA
- ABURA-ITAME ZHASAI PREPARED SICHUAN VEGETABLE – UPC: 4983673527325, Exp: 4/3/2025, 2/25/2025
These products were distributed at Tokyo Central / Marukai stores in California.
What Should You Do?
Do not eat these vegetables. Dispose of them immediately or return them to the store for a refund. If you experience any symptoms of botulism, seek urgent medical care.
