Botulism Recall: Taco Bell Salsa Pulled By Illinois Company

CHICAGO, IL — Kraft Heinz, based in Chicago in Pittsburgh, has issued a voluntary recall of approximately 7,000 cases of Taco Bell Salsa Con Queso Mild Cheese Dip over fears of botulism contamination. The company said it implemented the recall after the product showed signs of separation, which can indicate a potential health hazard.

The potential contamination could create conditions that could allow for the growth of Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum), a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death.

The recall affects 15-ounce glass jars and cases of the Taco Bell Salsa Con Queso Mild Cheese Dip that had "best when used by" dates ranging from Oct. 31, 2018 to Jan. 23, 2019. That includes products with these UPC codes:

• 021000024490
• 21000024490
• 021000024490
• 21000066900

Kraft Heinz warned customers not to consume the salsa con queso even if it does not look or smell spoiled. So far, there have been no reports of illness related to the product, the company said. (Get Patched In: Subscribe to free daily email, news alerts, Facebook fun and more from Patch)

Consumers who purchased this product should not eat it and return it to the store where purchased for an exchange or full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-310-3704 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern, for a full refund.

Kraft Heinz said botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause symptoms including 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.

No other sizes, varieties and UPC code dates are affected by the recall, Kraft Heinz said, issuing an apology. "We deeply regret this situation and apologize to any consumers we have disappointed," the company said in a statement."

Salmonella, parasite infections

In the last week, several other companies have recalled products in Illinois due to salmonella fears. Recalled products include four varieties of Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers, various varieties of Ritz Bits and Ritz cracker sandwiches, Honey Smacks cereal (affecting one person in Illinois) and raw turkey (affecting nine people in Illinois). No reports of illness have been linked to the cracker recalls so far.

In addition to the recalls, Illinois has seen nearly 250 reports of illness linked to a parasite infection that affected those who consumed McDonald's salads and guests at an event at a suburban country club.

Read: More Crackers Recalled: 4 Foods Linked To Salmonella In Illinois

Photos via Kraft Heinz