Fruit Juice Recalled in 12 States Due to Paralysis and Death Risk Concerns

Pumpkin Juice Recall Over Botulism Risk

Walker’s Wine Juice LLC has recalled its pumpkin juice—used for winemaking—after a New York state inspection revealed insufficient acidity to safely sterilize the product. The juice, distributed to wineries and sold in 12 states, lacked the required “kill step” during production, which uses heat to eliminate harmful bacteria like Clostridium botulinum, the cause of potentially deadly botulism.

Recalled pumpkin juice packaging included 2.5-gallon, 5-gallon, and bulk containers (stock image).

Affected Products and Distribution

The juice was sold through Walker’s retail store in Forestville, New York, and distributed commercially to Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. No illnesses have been reported yet, but the FDA warns consumers to watch for symptoms like:

• Muscle weakness or paralysis
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Vision problems (blurriness, double vision)

Why Is Botulism Dangerous?

Botulism toxins attack the nervous system, causing paralysis that can halt breathing. While rare (only ~25 U.S. foodborne cases yearly), it’s fatal in 5–10% of cases. Low-acid, oxygen-free environments—like improperly sterilized juices—allow C. botulinum spores to thrive and produce toxins.

Clostridium botulinum bacteria under a microscope (illustration).

What Should Consumers Do?

Those with symptoms should seek immediate medical care. Dispose of affected products and contact Walker’s Wine Juice for reimbursement instructions. Most cases stem from homemade preserves or fermented foods, but commercial products with flawed safety steps pose risks too.

Key recall details:
– Products: 2.5-gallon, 5-gallon, and bulk containers labeled “pumpkin.”
– No illnesses reported as of now.
– FDA advisory: Stay vigilant for neurological symptoms.