Botulism is a muscle-paralyzing disease caused by a nerve toxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Foodborne botulism is caused by eating foods that contain the botulism toxin.
Symptoms of botulism include:
- double vision or blurred vision
- drooping eyelids
- slurred speech
- difficulty swallowing
- dry mouth
- muscle weakness
On July 18, 2007, the FDA announced a recall of various brands of hot dog chili sauce after at least four people were hospitalized with botulism following consumption of the food.
Botulism often is associated with home-canned foods, and precautions should be taken by home canners to ensure compliance with strict hygienic procedures. |