FDA Recalls Tomato Sauce Over Botulism Risk
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall of tomato sauce products from First and Last Bakery, LLC, based in Hartford, Connecticut, due to concerns about botulism contamination. Botulism is a rare but potentially fatal illness caused by toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
Details of the Recall
- Products affected: Tomato sauce in 26-fluid-ounce jars
- Use-by date: September 2026
- Recall announced: Monday, 3 November 2025
- Locations sold: Big Y and Stop & Shop stores in Connecticut and Massachusetts
- Date of sale: 22 September 2025
This recall is especially relevant as the holiday season approaches, a time when tomato sauces are commonly used.
Health Advisory and Consumer Guidance
If you purchased any of these jars, the FDA strongly advises against using the product. Instead, consumers should:
- Return the jars for a full refund
- Use fresh, properly processed tomato sauces
- Consider making sauces at home, following safe canning procedures
The FDA explained the cause: the sauces were "manufactured without an approved schedule process," meaning they may not have been adequately sterilized to eliminate C. botulinum.
Botulism occurs from toxins produced by the bacterium in low-oxygen environments such as improperly canned, jarred, or preserved foods and poses a serious health risk.
About Botulism
Though rare, botulism is one of the deadliest forms of food poisoning, emphasizing the importance of safe food preparation and processing methods.
Author's Summary
This recall highlights the critical need for proper food sterilization to prevent deadly botulism risk, especially during peak holiday cooking seasons.