CDC maintains supplies of botulism antitoxin at quarantine stations nationwide for rapid release at the request of state health officials who report suspected cases. The outbreaks described in this report probably resulted from a commercial process that was inadequate to prevent contamination of the final product with C. botulinum spores. Once contaminated with spores, the pH, oil covering, and lack of refrigeration probably provided conditions conducive to the production of botulism toxin. Strict control of the commercial processes used to manufacture such products and the addition of antimicrobial growth inhibitors or acidifying agents could assist in preventing such outbreaks. Food and Drug Administration.
Press release no.
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