FDA Recalls Pasta Sauces Over Potential Botulism Risk as Holiday Food Prep Begins

FDA Recalls Tomato Sauces Over Botulism Concerns

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall of several tomato sauce products sold in Connecticut and Massachusetts due to possible contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium that causes botulism. This recall comes at a time when many families are beginning holiday food preparations.

Products Affected by the Recall

Original Marinara Sauce (Tomato & Basil)
Original Traditional Pasta Sauce (Meat Flavored)
Original Puttanesca Sauce (Mildly Hot & Spicy)

All are sold in 26-fluid-ounce jars with a use-by date of September 2026 and were distributed on September 22, 2025, at Big Y and Stop & Shop stores.

Reason for the Recall

The FDA stated that these sauces were produced "without an approved schedule process," indicating that the sterilization steps to eliminate C. botulinum spores may not have been properly implemented.

Safety Warning

Consumers should avoid eating these products and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

About Botulism

Botulism is a rare but very serious foodborne illness. The bacteria produce a toxin that disrupts nerve functions and can lead to paralysis, including respiratory failure.

Symptoms usually develop within 12 to 36 hours after consuming contaminated food and include fatigue, blurred vision, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and stomach pain.

Summary

FDA recalls specific tomato sauces due to botulism risk from improper sterilization, urging consumers to return products and stay alert for early symptoms.

Business Times — 2025-11-06