Botulism Food Poisoning Toxin, Symptoms & Treatment

Canning foods in your own home can put you at risk of becoming infected with Botulism food poisoning, so precautions must always be taken.  The bacteria produces toxins when placed in conditions that are oxygen-free, or anaerobic, such as a jar or can that is sealed.  Many people believe that it is possible to look at a container of home canned food and know if it is safe to eat.  Most food and preservation experts say that it is impossible to tell by looking if the botulism bacteria is present. So being extremely careful and clean is essential to botulism prevention.

When home canning foods, it is crucial that low acid foods like asparagus and green beans either be canned using a pressure canner that reaches very high temperatures in order to kill any bacteria, or that sufficient vinegar is used to prohibit the growth of bacteria.  Once removed from the can, foods should be boiled for 10 to 12 minutes as an added safety precaution.

Recently, instances of Botulism in manufactured pouches of baby food has been in the news.  It is advised that new mothers be especially cautious when canning their own baby food.

Nearly one year ago, a nurse in Spokane became seriously ill after eating a can of green beans that had been canned from vegetables in her garden.  Her children became ill as well, but suffered only mild symptoms.  The nurse was placed on a ventilator for a time.  Botulism is rare, but can be deadly in some circumstances.  The infection can be paralyzing, as the toxins descend from the head and often affect an individuals sight, blurring their vision.  Swallowing may become difficult, and if the toxins affect the respiratory system breathing becomes difficult, which is usually what happens when the infection becomes fatal.

Concerns about rising cases of Botulism have been studied because of the declining economy.  When individuals lose their jobs or are stretched financially, they grow and can more of their own foods.  This increases the risk of the Botulism infection due to improper canning techniques.

Food poisoning is usually mild, but anyone who develops Botulism symptoms should seek medical attention immediately to see if they need Botulism treatment based upon their Botulism diagnosis.  If you become infected with Botulism after eating foods prepared or manufactured by others, consider contacting a New York food poisoning attorney.  You may be entitled for compensation of costs associated with your illness, such as medical expenses and lost wages.