Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin alerts consumers that two companies are recalling several kinds of olives due to a potential botulism risk

Flora Foods, Pompano Beach, FL, is recalling its 25-oz. jars of “Cerignola Olives” because they have the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.

The recalled “Cerignola” olives were distributed in Florida, Georgia and upstate New York in retail stores. The product comes in a 25-oz., clear glass jar marked with LOT #G080 stamped on the label. The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing found that the product had been underprocessed.

Consumers who have purchased 25-oz. jars of “Cerignola” olives are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 954-785-3100.

Cibo Specialty Foods, a division of Colavita USA, L.L.C., Linden, NJ, is voluntarily recalling the following olive products sold under the “DAL RACCOLTO” brand. Consumers should immediately stop using these products.

Testing of the Dal Raccolto brand olives has revealed that the pH and water activity exceed the levels necessary to control botulism. The specific products being recalled are:

· DAL RACCOLTO “Italian Colossal Olives,” Lot G062, packed in 4.18 lb. glass jars.

· DAL RACCOLTO “Natural Cerignola Olives,” Lot G062, packed in 4.18 lb. glass jars.

· DAL RACCOLTO “Black Cerignola Olives, “ Lots G009 & G066, packed in 2.5 kg tins.

· DAL RACCOLTO “Red Cerignola Olives,” Lot G046, packed in 4.18 lb. glass jars.

· DAL RACCOLTO “Green Cerignola Olives,” Lot G062, packed in 4.18 lb. glass jars.

· DAL RACCOLTO “Baresana Olives,” Lot G198, packed in 11 lb. plastic tubs.

· DAL RACCOLTO “Nocellara Olives,” Lots G216 & G217, packed in 11 lb. plastic tubs.

· DAL RACCOLTO “Calabrese Olives,” Lot G198, packed in 11 lb. plastic tubs.

Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
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