Botulism Concerns Prompt Juice Recall In PA

PENNSYLVANIA — A New York company is recalling juice sold in several U.S. states, including Pennsylvania, over concerns the product may be contaminated with botulism.

On Tuesday, Walker’s Wine Juice LLC announced it was recalling pumpkin juice distributed to commercial wineries in 12 states.

In addition to Pennsylvania, the wine was distributed to Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, Ohio, Wisconsin and New York.

The affected products include:

• 2.5-gallon bag in box and 5-gallon hot pack labeled “pumpkin”; All lots are subject to the recall.
• 30-, 60- and 275-gallon bulk containers tagged “pumpkin”; All lots are subject to the recall.

The potential contamination was discovered after an inspection by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets found that the pumpkin juice pH was too high to be processed. As a result, inspectors determined that no adequate step was taken to address the possibility of microbiological hazards.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

Botulism is a potentially fatal form of food poisoning and can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision, and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension, and constipation may also be common symptoms.

People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

Consumers are urged to contact Walker’s Wine Juice for a possible refund and to determine an appropriate disposal of the remaining product. A representative for the company can be reached at 716-679-1292, ext. 1016.