UNFI is voluntarily recalling Arla Apetina Marinated Feta & Olives in Oil, Pitted for possible Clostridium botulinum contamination. The product must be refrigerated, and some of the product distributed from 2 UNFI distribution centers may have been exposed to temperatures above refrigeration during storage and/or distribution. This may allow the growth of Clostridium botulinum bacteria.
The bacteria, which grow under anaerobic conditions, can produce a toxin called botulinum toxin that can cause serious illness and death. Any canned or jarred foods must be carefully produced and maintained to reduce the risk of this hazard.
A total of 75 cases of this product were distributed to 69 retail customers located in Greenwood, Indiana and Sarasota, Florida between January 1, 2019 and August 30, 2019 and in these states: Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Michigan, Florida, Ohio, and Missouri. The product is in a 3.1 pound plastic package with UPC number 9393605697. Any Arla Apetina Marinated Feta & Olives in Oil products not sold by UNFI Greenwood or Sarasota are not affected by this recall.
If you purchased this product, do not eat it. This toxin does not change the taste, texture, smell, or appearance of food. Throw it away in a secure garbage can to keep it away from other people, or take it back to the place of purchase for a full refund.
The symptoms of botulism food poisoning start out mild, and progress down the body in a parallel fusion. Early symptoms can include dizziness, double vision, and trouble with speaking or swallowing. More serious symptoms can include general weakness, difficulty breathing, and weakness of other muscles. Anyone experience these symptoms should be taken to a doctor immediately. There is an antidote to botulism poisoning, but it must be administered at a hospital.
