Brand of mushrooms recalled because they may contain dangerous bacteria

Health Canada has issued a recall for a brand of mushrooms sold in Ontario after it was determined they may contain the bacteria that causes botulism.

Belle Grove brand Whole White Mushrooms are being recalled because they may permit the growth of Clostridium botulinum, the health authority said. The recall was announced on January 9.

The whole mushrooms were sold in 227-gram packages and have a best before date of January 15.

The recall advises anyone who has purchased the mushrooms to throw them away or return them to the store where they were purchased.

Food that has been contaminated by the bacteria may not look or smell spoiled, but Health Canada warns it can still make you sick.

In adults, symptoms of foodborne botulism include facial paralysis, unreactive pupils, difficulty swallowing, drooping eyelids, blurred vision, and difficulty speaking.

In children, potential symptoms include difficulty swallowing, slurred speech, generalized weakness, and paralysis.

“In severe cases of illness, people may die,” Health Canada said. “If you think you became sick from consuming a recalled product, call your doctor.”

To date, there have been no reported illnesses associated with the mushrooms.