1 min read- Christopher Ranch Peeled Garlic sold at Tops grocery stores has been recalled due to potential botulism.
- The affected garlic was sold in New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont.
- The garlic was not stored at the proper temperature, resulting in the bacterial growth.
Are you one of those cooks who adds three cloves of garlic when the recipe only calls for one? Do your weekend plans include a heaping batch of garlic mashed potatoes? If you live in a certain area of the United States, you may want to rethink those plans. Peeled garlic sold in certain grocery stores has been recalled due to a potential botulism risk in three U.S. states.
The affected garlic, Christopher Ranch Peeled Garlic, was sold in 6-ounce containers at Tops grocery stores in New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont. The Class I recall was announced today by the grocery chain, indicating that consumption of the affected product poses a risk of serious health consequences, including death.
According to the recall notice, the garlic was improperly stored—the product specifically states that it should maintain a temperature between 32 and 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Unfortunately, the garlic was stored in open-air coolers that did not reach that temperature threshold, and as such, there is the potential for botulism growth.
The affected garlic contains the UPC codes 00068826753408 and 00071894000005, and all best-by dates are affected. Tops grocery stores will issue a refund for the affected products with valid proof of purchase. All Tops customers should check their refrigerators to ensure they do not have the product in their possession. Symptoms from botulism can appear anywhere from six hours to two weeks post consumption—anyone experiencing symptoms should contact a healthcare provider.