FDA Recall: Tomato Sauce Pulled from Shelves over Botulism Risk
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recall for tomato sauce products from First and Last Bakery, LLC, based in Hartford, Connecticut, due to concerns over possible contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria responsible for botulism—a rare but potentially fatal foodborne illness.
Details of the Recall
- The recall affects tomato sauces packaged in 26-fluid-ounce jars with a use-by date of September 2026.
- Products were sold at Big Y and Stop & Shop stores in Connecticut and Massachusetts on September 22, 2025.
- The sauces were produced without an approved scheduled process, possibly lacking sufficient sterilization to eliminate the bacteria.
Health Risks and Safety Advice
Botulism arises from toxins produced by C. botulinum bacteria in low-oxygen environments, such as inadequate canning or preserving of foods.
The FDA warned, "Consumers who purchased these jars are urged to return them for a full refund and avoid consuming the contents."
With the upcoming holiday season, the FDA emphasizes the importance of choosing properly processed sauces or preparing homemade versions using safe canning methods to prevent illness.
How to Respond
- Do not consume the recalled tomato sauce jars.
- Return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- Opt for fresh or safely processed alternatives.
Summary
This recall highlights the critical risks of improper food processing and the necessity of vigilance to avoid deadly botulism poisoning.