The state health department issued a warning today about carrot juice which could cause botulism poisoning.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment said that certain batches of Bolthouse Farms Carrot Juice should be discarded.
Of greatest concern, juice with a “best if used by” date of Nov. 11, 2006 or before, the department said, in a press release.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a nationwide advisory about the juice, which comes in 450 ml and 1-liter plastic bottles.
The company is based in Bakersfield, Calif., and has been linked to four cases of botulism poisoning in Florida.
Improper refrigeration of the juice in consumers’ homes appears to have been involved in each case.
A bacterium called clostridium botulinum, the agent that causes botulism poisoning, is commonly found in soil, and can create a toxin under certain conditions such as inadequate refrigeration.
Paralysis and death can occur in “extremely rare” cases, according to Susan Parachini, a program manager with CDPHE.
Refrigerator temperatures at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, and freezer temperatures at 0 degrees Fahrenheit are recommended.
Parachini also advises consumers to follow labelling instructions indicating that refrigeration is necessary.
Other symptoms of botulism can include double vision, droopy eyelids, and trouble speaking or swallowing. Getting medical care quickly is important, said the department.
The department offered a phone number for consumers needing more information: 303-692-3620.
