The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is warning consumers not to eat any soup products made by Souperb of Richmond. The products were improperly processed, making them susceptible to contamination with Clostridium botulinum toxin. A voluntary recall will be issued by the company later today.
No cases of illness have been reported to date. But botulinum toxin can causer serious illness and death, even in tiny quantities.
The soups are packaged in Mason-style glass jars with screw-on metal lids. They were sold at farmer’s markets in the area, retail stores, and the Souperb store at 314 North 25th Street in Richmond. The jars are labeled with the Souperb name.
If you purchased these products, do not eat them. Discard in doubled plastic bags and place in the receptacle for non-recyclable trash, or return to the place of purchase for a refund. Either wear gloves when handling the product or wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching the jars.
Botulism toxin is odorless, colorless, and tasteless. It causes a serious paralytic illness that can cause death. Symptoms of botulism poisoning include double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, and dry or sore throat. If not treated, progressive descending paralysis will follow. If you ate these products and are ill, see a doctor immediately.
