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July 27th, 2007

CHECK YOUR CUPBOARDS FOR RECALLED CANNED FOOD

OLYMPIA- At least three products that are part of a national food recall have been sold in Washington stores.
The products, distributed by the Castleberry Food Company, were recalled because of possible botulism contamination. The Washington State Department of Health is concerned that consumers may unknowingly have some of these products stored in their homes.

Although approximately 90 products are part of this recall, only three of the recalled foods are known to have been sold in Washington: 15 oz. cans of Cattle Drive Chili, 15 oz. cans of Castleberry's Corned Beef Hash, and 15 oz. cans of Castleberry's Beef Stew.

As of July 25 there have been no reported cases of illness in Washington related to this recall.

"Unlike many recalls, a recall of canned goods poses special challenges because the product has such a long shelf life," said Janet Anderberg, an agency food safety expert. "This recall is due to contamination with botulism, which is a deadly foodborne illness. We can't stress enough how important it is to check your kitchen for these foods and to properly dispose of any you find."
Consumers who have these products or any foods made with these products should throw them away immediately. Double-bag the cans in plastic bags and place them in a container for non-recyclable trash. Additional instructions for safe disposal can be found on the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site (www.cdc.gov/botulism/botulism_faq.htm).

Although major grocery retailers have reported that the recalled products have been taken off the shelves, smaller retail food stores may not be aware of the recall so local health agencies are conducting spot checks to confirm the products have been removed. During earlier spot checks public health officials did find product still on the shelves; anyone who finds these products still being sold should contact local health officials.

Skagit County Public Health Department wants to stress the importance of this recall. Botulism can be deadly and often does not cause a change in the look, smell or taste of the food.
There have been no related illnesses reported in Washington State to date.

Skagit County Public Health has been contacting local food stores to be sure the recalled products are no longer available for sale. For further information, contact the Skagit County Public Health Department at 360-336-9380 or www.skagitcounty.net/health .