The product comes in a 14 ounce can. Heinz made the decision after it discovered that some of the cans may not have been processed properly. That raises the possibility of exposure to the bacteria that causes botulism if the product is consumed.
Botulism is a rare, but serious paralytic illness that can be fatal.
Health Canada says there were 18 cases of botulism in Canada in 1997. One person died from the illness. Classic symptoms include double vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth and muscle weakness. Infants suffering from botulism often appear lethargic, are constipated, feed poorly and have a weak muscle tone. In food-borne botulism, symptoms generally begin 18 to 36 hours after eating a contaminated food.