Botulism Outbreak in Central France Linked to Contaminated Pesto Sauce

The French farm ministry reported five probable cases of food-borne botulism in central France, traced to contaminated pesto sauce sold at regional market fairs. Botulism, a rare yet potentially fatal disease, requires quick diagnosis and antitoxin treatment. The government promptly recalled the pesto sauce for further analysis.

The French farm ministry on Tuesday reported five likely cases of food-borne botulism in central France, linked to contaminated pesto sauce sold at local market fairs.

According to the World Health Organisation, botulism is a rare but potentially fatal disease if not diagnosed rapidly and treated with antitoxin.

"Considering the incubation time (from a few hours to a few days) and the serious nature of the disease, people who have consumed these products are called to be very vigilant and to consult a doctor in case of symptoms," the French farm ministry stated.

The French government issued an immediate recall of the wild garlic pesto sauce made by a small local producer, which is suspected of causing the cases. Samples have been sent to the Institut Pasteur for further analysis.

(With inputs from agencies.)