California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Director and State Health Officer Dr. Ron Chapman warned consumers not to eat Williams-Sonoma Pumpkin Seed Pesto sauce because it may have been improperly produced, making it susceptible to contamination with Clostridium botulinum.

Ingestion of botulism toxin from improperly processed jarred and canned foods may lead to serious illness and death.

The manufacturer of the product, California Olive and Vine, LLC, of Sutter, California, initiated the voluntary recall after CDPH determined that the product had been improperly processed.

The product was packaged in 8-ounce glass jars with screw-on metal lids. The recalled product can be identified by the following stock keeping unit (SKU) numbers: 6404305 and 6389043.

The Williams-Sonoma Pumpkin Seed Pesto has been sold nationwide at Williams-Sonoma retail stores since September.    

Botulism toxin is odorless and colorless. Consumers that have any of these products or any foods made with these products should discard them immediately. Double bag the jars in plastic bags and place in a trash receptacle for non-recyclable trash.

Wear gloves when handling these products or wash your hands with soap and running water after handling any food or containers that may be contaminated.

Botulism is a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by a nerve toxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.

The initial symptoms frequently experienced are double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, and dry or sore throat.

Progressive descending paralysis, usually symmetrical, may follow. Infants with botulism appear lethargic, feed poorly, are constipated, have a weak cry, and poor muscle tone.

CDPH recommends consumers experiencing any ill effects after consuming these products should consult their health care provider.

Consumers who observe the product being offered for sale are encouraged to report the activity to the CDPH toll free complaint line at 800-495-3232.

Visit www.cdph.ca.gov for more information.