Wine company recalls pumpkin juice in Illinois due to botulism concerns. Here's what to know
Hannah HudnallA New York wine company announced on April 1 that it is recalling its pumpkin juice products because of possible contamination, according to a U.S. Food and Drug Administration press release. Illinois is among the list of states where the recalled juice was distributed.
Here's what to know about the recall.
Which products are being recalled?
Walker’s Wine Juice LLC is recalling the following products:
- 2.5-gallon boxed bags and 5-gallon hot packs labeled "pumpkin"
- 30-, 60- and 275-gallon bulk containers tagged “pumpkin”
Where is pumpkin juice being recalled?
The recalled products were distributed via Walker’s Wine Juice retail store in New York. The juice was also distributed directly by Walker’s to a limited number of commercial wineries in the following states:
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- Ohio
- Pennslyvania
- Wisconsin
Why are the products being recalled?
The pumpkin juice is being recalled because of possible contamination with botulism, a rare but potentially fatal form of food poisoning caused by a toxin that attacks the body's nerves. Botulism can cause muscle weakness, dizziness, double-vision, trouble speaking or swallowing, difficulty breathing, abdominal distension and constipation. Those displaying these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
An inspection by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors found that "the pumpkin juice pH was too high to be processed per Walker’s 'hot fill' schedule process," according to the release.
"As a result, it was determined that no adequate kill step was used to address the possibility of microbiological hazards," the administration said.
What is pumpkin juice used for?
Pumpkin juice is not just an imaginary invention from "Harry Potter," but can also be used for fruit smoothies, autumn-themed beverages and wine.
Walker's sells a variety of other fruit juices as well, including juice made from raspberries, strawberries and apricots, which the company says can then be made into wine.
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What to do if you believe you have a recalled product
The FDA recommends that consumers who purchased recalled products do the following:
- Consumers who display symptoms should contact their healthcare provider. To report a complaint or adverse event, visit Industry and Consumer Assistance.
- Walker's website advises contacting its office at 716-679-1292 with your name and contact information for additional details and next steps.
- Return the recalled product to the store for a full refund or wrap it securely and discard it in the trash.
- Do not distribute recalled products to others or donate them.
- Clean all surfaces that were in contact with the contaminated product.