SYMPTOMS OF BOTULISM FOOD POISONING

There is food poisoning, and then there is food poisoning. One of the worst kind of food poisoning is botulism. The bacteria that cause it may be hiding in some wonderful California carrot juice right now (see previous post).

And what if you drank what could be Clostridium botulinum contaminated Liquid Gold Carrot Juice? Don't panic. There is always a chance that a failure in temperature control of the juice did not occur at the plant, but actually occurred in a store, or, even in homes. That is probably what happened in a similar incident in 2006, with carrot juice also originating in California (but a different company - Bolthouse Farms).

But if you are nervous, here are the kinds of symptoms you may want to watch out for: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision, trouble with speaking, breathing and swallowing. Sometimes you also get weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation. Yes, the symptoms are quite different from most other types of food poisoning.

By the way, keep your carrot juice below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. And don't leave it sitting around in a hot car while you do other shopping.

To your good health,
TSF

CALIFORNIA CARROT JUICE RECALL

A potent neurotoxin in your healthy carrot juice is the last thing you want. But it happens. Why? Because carrot juice has to be properly refrigerated. If it isn't, you may get Clostridium botulinum bacteria growing in it. The result can be a case of botulism. And botulism can be fatal.

So Californians watch out since contaminated juice may be in your stores. Healthy Choice Island Blends, Inc. of Los Angeles, CA, is recalling all sizes of LIQUID GOLD CARROT JUICE, because it may be contain this deadly bacterium. The juice was sold in plastic see-through containers in gallon, half-gallon, and quart sizes.

By the way, this is not the first recall of California carrot juice because of this bacterium, and it well may not be the last.

If you have bought it, throw it out even if it smells and looks fine. If you or a family member has drunk it recently, watch carefully for symptoms (see next post) and get help immediately.

To your good health,
TSF