There are some cases of botulism that occur on a yearly basis. Once an individual consumes food that is tainted by Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria will produce the nerve toxin within the body that can lead to paralysis and even death if not treated right away. Preventing botulism infection usually involves proper and safe preparation and preservation of food. It is important to carefully scrutinize food before consumption for any signs of potential contamination. By enrolling in a first aid class, you will learn ways to manage the condition
How to check if food is contaminated with botulism
- Initially feel the temperature of the food if it needs heating or refrigeration.
- You have to determine the source of the food if possible. You have to take note of high risk foods such as low acid foods such as corn, beets, meat, green beans, tomatoes, home-canned products and even fermented seafood. Nevertheless, chili peppers that were commercially prepared as well as garlic in oil and even baked potatoes are also connected with botulism as well.
- Carefully inspect the jar or canned foods for any possible irregularities in the container before they are opened. It is recommended to dispose of cans that have bulging seams or ends or those that are already leaking. In case the lid of the glass has leaks or bulges, the food should not be eaten. Additionally, honey which is often connected with infant botulism does not show any signs of contamination, thus it must not be given to children younger than a year old.
- Always check if the air rushes in or out when opening a container. In case the air rushes out, this indicates that the food can be contaminated or already spoiled.
- In some cases, you can smell the food to check if it has a spoiled odor. There are some strains of C. botulinum that do not cause the food to smell spoiled. On the other hand, if the food does not smell spoiled, it does not necessarily means that is safe.
- You have to check the color and texture of the food. The liquid should be clear and the broth on canned chicken or meat must be in gel form.
Issues to consider
It is important not to dispose of contaminated low acid foods such as meat, fish, poultry, meat or vegetables in the garbage without heating them properly since they might contain toxins that can accidentally cause poisoning to other humans or pets. You have to boil the opened container in water for about 30 minutes and then allow it to cool down and throw away the contents. Nevertheless, you can dispose of contaminated foods that have high acid content such as fruit in a garbage can or disposal.
In case the low acid food does not show any signs of contamination, but the canning process was not carried out correctly, it must be boiled if the individual is at an altitude below 1,000 feet.