Shoppers are being warned about the potential deadly consequences of consuming specific jars of tomato sauce. First and Last Bakery, LLC, has issued a recall for three popular tomato-based pasta sauces due to the possible presence of Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can cause severe food poisoning. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that these products were manufactured without an approved process, allowing the dangerous bacterium to develop.
The affected products are 26-ounce jars of First and Last Original Marinara Sauce Tomato and Basil, Meat Flavoured Traditional Pasta Sauce, and Mildly Hot and Spicy Puttanesca Sauce. These sauces were distributed in Connecticut and Massachusetts through Big Y and other retailers starting from September 22, 2025, with a use-by date of September 26, as detailed by the Daily Record.
While no illnesses linked to these products have been reported, consumers are advised to return the jars to the store of purchase for a full refund due to the potential risks of Botulism, a severe form of food poisoning caused by Clostridium botulinum bacteria forming in improperly processed foods.
Botulinum toxins, identified as some of the most lethal substances known, can impact nerve functions and lead to respiratory and muscle paralysis, as highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO). Symptoms of botulism include weakness, dizziness, vision problems, difficulty speaking or swallowing, breathing issues, muscle weakness, abdominal swelling, and constipation. These symptoms, caused by the toxins produced by the bacteria, typically manifest within 12 to 36 hours after exposure.
Although fatal in around 5-10% of cases, immediate medical attention is crucial for anyone experiencing the mentioned symptoms. The FDA recall, although affecting the US, underscores the recent trend of urgent recalls in the UK due to similar health concerns in various products sold by supermarkets and retailers.
Recalls initiated by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK are common when products pose risks to consumers, whether through allergen omissions or foreign materials present. In a recent alert, individuals with peanut allergies were cautioned against consuming Aldi’s Dairyfine Crispy Choc Um’s due to potential peanut presence, which could trigger severe reactions. Customers are urged to return any affected items for a refund.
Peanut allergies can lead to anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate treatment with an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen) and prompt hospital care.