Saucy Discovery: Sauces Sold by Johnston Bakery May Pose Serious Health Risks

The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) has issued a warning to Rhode Islanders who purchased Roasted Garlic Sauce, Clam Sauce, Tomato Basil Sauce, Fra-Diavalo Sauce, and Marinara Sauce from D.Palmieri's Bakery on 624 Killingly St in Johnston. These products were not processed properly. There is a potential risk of Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that, if present, can cause life threatening illness or death.

The products were sold in jars exclusively at the Bakery's retail location under the D.Palmieri brand name. The pasta sauces listed above are the only products of concern at this time.

Improper processing of these sauces was uncovered today during an inspection by the Office of Food Protection. HEALTH responded immediately to the unsafe handling of the sauces. HEALTH is recalling the unsafe products and have halted their preparation.

Improper processing potentially allows for the presence of the Botulinum toxin, which can cause general weakness, dizziness, double vision and trouble speaking, swallowing, or breathing. People experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

No issues with these products have been reported to date. However, any of these products that are currently available for consumption should not be eaten out of an abundance of caution.

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