CA Company Recalls Pumpkin Seed Pesto in Jars Due to Improper Processing

A California company is recalling Pumpkin Seed Pesto, packaged for the Williams Sonoma label, after it was determined that the product may have been improperly processed, making it a Clostridium botulinum risk.   No illnesses have been reported.

This is another case of products being recalled due to improper processing / C. bolulinum risk issues.  Last month, a WA state company recalled pasta sauce.  Then there was the other CA company that recalled pesto sauce after being linked to a botulism recall.  In these cases, strict process controls are needed in properly ensuring the low acid ingredients are treated (acidified, water activity lowered) in order to prevent C. bolulinum growth.

 FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm418639.htm
California Olive And Vine Announces The
Voluntary Recall Of Pumpkin Seed Pesto

Contact:  Consumer:  (530) 822-7996

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 10, 2014 - California Olive and Vine, LLC of Sutter, CA is taking precautionary measures and voluntarily recalling Pumpkin Seed Pesto because of irregular lab results. The company found that the jarred pesto may have been improperly processed, making it susceptible to contamination with Clostridium botulinum.

This food product was distributed under the Williams-Sonoma label, nationwide, since September 2014. The product labels have the following SKU numbers 6404305, 6389043 and is sold in an 8 ounce glass jar, as pictured below. The company has made the deliberate decision to recall this product to ensure the safety of their customers. The company has not been notified of any illness associated with this product.

No other products from this company are affected.

Ingestion of botulism toxin may lead to serious illness and death. To date, there have been no reports of any illnesses or contamination of the product.

Symptoms from Botulism are as follows: general weakness, dizziness, double vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distention and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.

California Olive and Vine immediately segregated its entire inventory of this product and has notified Williams-Sonoma and CDPH directly. Consumers who have purchased the recalled Pumpkin Seed Pesto are urged to dispose of the product or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company Monday through Friday between 10am and 4pm.