Recalled garlic sold in 3 states could cause fatal food poisoning. Check your fridge and avoid these products

Consumers are being warned to avoid certain garlic products right now.

Tops Friendly Markets has issued a recall of two types of peeled garlic due to potential contamination from Clostridium botulinum, according to a notice posted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

Clostridium botulinum is a bacterium that can “cause life threatening illness or death,” the notice further states.

Tops Friendly Markets, a supermarket chain based in Williamsville, New York, raised the alarm after a routine store inspection found that the peeled garlic containers were being kept at insufficient temperatures.

The improper storage could allow the Clostridium botulinum bacteria to occur, potentially causing botulism in consumers. 

Tops Friendly Markets has also published the recall, giving noting that it has a Class I label—the most serious designation. 

As of Wednesday, April 1, there are no known illnesses related to the garlic. 

What products are affected?

The recall involves two different types of peeled garlic packed in plastic bags. Unlike many recalls, this issue occurred once the products were already in stores. This means that all product code dates are included in the recall. Below are the product’s full names and UPC codes:

• Christopher Ranch Peeled Garlic, 6 oz: UPCs of 74574-10852
• Garland Fresh Peeled Garlic, 6 oz: UPCs of 71894-00000 and 68826-75340

You can view images of the recalled products on the FDA’s website..

Where and when was the product sold?

The recalled peeled garlic products were distributed across Tops stores in New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont locations. 

What should I do if I have this product?

Return the recalled product to your store of purchase for a full refund. The FDA advises that you should not eat the garlic even if it looks and smells absolutely fine. 

What botulism symptoms should I look out for?

Botulism is a type of food poisoning that has the potential to be fatal. According to the FDA, botulism symptoms can include: 

• General weakness
• Dizziness
• Double-vision
• Trouble with speaking or swallowing
• Difficulty in breathing
• Weakness of other muscles
• Abdominal distension 
• Constipation

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends seeking immediate medical help if you experience any of these symptoms.

Antitoxin treatment can prevent further complications from botulism, but works most effectively if used early. 

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