A popular brand of almond milk is being recalled in NSW after being linked to a case of botulism.

NSW Health is advising people not to consume Inside Out Unsweetened Almond Milk with a use by date of 1 March 2023, which has been for sale in Woolworths. The authority says initial investigations have confirmed the presence of botulinum toxin in a sample of the product.

The contamination was discovered after a person experienced severe botulism symptoms after drinking the almond milk. They were admitted to hospital and continue to receive treatment.

The NSW Food Authority is investigating the manufacturing of the product to determine the possible cause of the contamination.

NSW Health says the product isn’t safe to consume, and anyone who has purchased any of the recalled product should throw it out or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Symptoms of botulism

The authority said while foodborne botulism is very rare in Australia, the toxin can be extremely dangerous and can cause life-threatening illnesses.

“Early symptoms of foodborne botulism include weakness, fatigue and vertigo. While these symptoms occur commonly due to a number of health conditions, with botulism it is usually followed by blurred vision, dry mouth and difficulty swallowing. Nausea and vomiting may also occur,” explained Director of NSW Health’s One Health branch Keira Glasgow.

“These symptoms can progress to paralysis of the arm muscles and continue down the body to the trunk and legs, and paralysis of breathing muscles can be fatal.

“We are urging anyone who has consumed this product and experiences these serious symptoms to seek immediate medical attention by visiting their nearest emergency department or calling Triple Zero (000) for emergency assistance.

“Most cases recover if diagnosed and treated early. In foodborne botulism, symptoms may begin from a few hours to several days after consuming the contaminated product.”

Inside Out Nutritious Goods says it’s thoughts are with the affected customer.

“As soon as we were informed of a potential contamination issue, we commenced a voluntary recall and have been providing every assistance to the relevant authorities. We are working with NSW Health and the NSW Food Authority to investigate what has happened. Inside Out is also engaging independent experts to investigate the matter,” the company said in a statement.

Recalled Product: JS Health x Inside Out Almond Milk (Collagen+Calcium+Prebiotics) 1 L

Issue: The recall is due to potential biotoxin contamination (Botulinum toxin)​.

https://insideoutng.com.au​Food products contaminated with Botulinum toxin may cause illness if consumed.