CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A Williams-Sonoma seasonal jarred pesto may have been improperly processed, making the product susceptible to contamination with the bacteria that cause botulism, according to a news release from the company and the Food and Drug Administration.
California Olive and Vine of Sutter, California is recalling the jars of Pumpkin Seed pesto, which were distributed nationwide under the Williams-Sonoma label since September of 2014. The pesto was sold in 8-ounce glass jars and has SKU numbers 6404305 and 6389043.
No illnesses have yet been reported and no other products have been affected.
Botulism is a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by a nerve toxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Symptoms include double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, and dry or sore throat, and may be followed by progressive descending paralysis. Infants with botulism appear lethargic, feed poorly, are constipated, have a weak cry and poor muscle tone.
In August, two people in Ohio were hospitalized with botulism that public health officials suspected was connected to a nationwide recall of pesto sauce by VR Green Farms of San Clemente, California.
Consumers who have any of these products or any foods made with these products should discard them immediately. Double bag the jars in plastic bags and place in the trash. Do not recycle the jars. Wear gloves when handling these products or wash your hands with soap and running water.
If you think you've become ill from consuming a recalled product, see a doctor immediately.
The pesto is no longer for sale on Williams-Sonoma's web site. California Olive and Vine did not provide information about how to receive a refund or a phone number for consumers to call. That information will be updated when it is available.
You can also find more information about food safety from the FDA here, or by calling 1-888-SAFEFOOD Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. eastern time.