A brand of almond milk has been recalled in New South Wales after being linked to a case of potentially life-threatening botulism. NSW Health confirmed the presence of botulinum toxin in a sample of Inside Out Unsweetened Almond Milk with a use-by date of 1 March, sold at Woolworths stores in the state.
The contamination was identified after a person experienced severe botulism symptoms following consumption and was hospitalised, where they continue to receive treatment. The NSW Food Authority is investigating the manufacturing process to determine the cause.
NSW Health warns the recalled product is not safe to consume and urges consumers to check their fridges and cupboards, disposing of the milk or returning it to the supermarket for a refund. Early symptoms of food-borne botulism include weakness, fatigue, vertigo, blurred vision, dry mouth, and difficulty swallowing, with potential progression to paralysis and fatal respiratory failure.
Keira Glasgow from NSW Health stated that while food-borne botulism is very rare in Australia, the toxin can be extremely dangerous. She advised anyone with symptoms to seek immediate medical attention, noting that most cases recover if diagnosed and treated early. Symptoms may appear from a few hours to several days after consumption.
