# Major Recall Alert: Pumpkin Juice Recalled Due to Potential Foodborne Illness - Botulism
Walker’s Wine Juice LLC, based in Forestville, NY, has announced a significant recall of its **Pumpkin Juice** product due to the potential risk of **botulism contamination**. Botulism is a serious foodborne illness that can result in life-threatening health conditions, making this recall a critical notice for consumers and businesses alike. Keep reading to learn why this recall matters, who’s affected, and what steps you need to take to protect yourself.
## Why This Recall is Important
Botulism is a rare but potentially fatal form of food poisoning caused by a toxin produced by *Clostridium botulinum*. The contamination of food products with this toxin is a serious public health concern because of the potentially severe symptoms, which include:
- **General weakness**
- **Dizziness**
- **Double vision**
- **Trouble speaking or swallowing**
- **Difficulty breathing**
- **Muscle paralysis**
In extreme cases, botulism can result in long-term disability or even death. Early treatment is essential, so if you or anyone you know has consumed Walker’s Pumpkin Juice and experiences these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
The potential contamination of Walker’s Pumpkin Juice was discovered when the **New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors** determined that the product's pH level was too high for its “hot fill” processing method. This indicates that there was no sufficient "kill step" during production to eliminate microbiological hazards such as botulism toxins.
## Details of the Recall
Here’s what you need to know about the recalled product:
- **Product Name**: Pumpkin Juice
- **Brand**: Walker’s Wine Juice LLC
- **Distribution Locations**:
- Walker’s Wine Juice retail store in Forestville, NY.
- Shipped to commercial wineries in the following states:
- Illinois (IL)
- Indiana (IN)
- Kansas (KS)
- Kentucky (KY)
- Maine (ME)
- Michigan (MI)
- Minnesota (MN)
- New Jersey (NJ)
- New York (NY)
- Ohio (OH)
- Pennsylvania (PA)
- Wisconsin (WI)
- **Reason for Recall**: Potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum due to improper processing.
- **Reported Illnesses**: As of this announcement, no illnesses linked to this product have been reported.
## What You Should Do
If you have purchased or received Walker’s Pumpkin Juice, it’s critical to take these steps immediately:
1. **Stop Usage**: Do not consume or use the product for any purpose.
2. **Contact Walker’s Wine Juice LLC**:
- Reach out to the company to arrange proper disposal of the product.
- Confirm eligibility for reimbursement or further guidance.
3. **Dispose of the Product Safely**: Follow disposal instructions provided by Walker’s to ensure no one else is exposed to the potential hazard.
For additional questions or assistance, consumers can visit the [official FDA recall page](https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/walkers-wine-juice-llc-recalls-product-due-possible-health-risk).
## Stay Safe – Get Instant Recall Alerts
Food safety recalls like this one emphasize the importance of staying informed. Protect your household by downloading a **consumer recall alert app** that notifies you instantly of recalls and safety alerts in your region. Don’t miss crucial updates that could help prevent health emergencies for your family.
Walker’s Pumpkin Juice recall is a reminder to always stay vigilant when it comes to the safety of the food and beverages we consume. Be proactive—share this information with friends and loved ones who may have purchased the product to help spread awareness.
For verified updates and more details, please visit the official recall notice on the [FDA website here](https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/walkers-wine-juice-llc-recalls-product-due-possible-health-risk). Stay informed and stay safe!