Almond milk sold at Woolworths supermarkets recalled due to case botulism case

The recall has been issued after the milk was linked to a case of a severe paralysis illness.

An almond milk sold at Woolworths stores has been urgently recalled after it was linked to a rare parlaysing illness. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sarah Marshall

A popular brand of almond milk has been urgently recalled after it was linked to a case of a severe paralysis illness.

Inside Out almond milk, which is sold at Woolworths stores in NSW, was pulled from shelves this week.

Food Standards Australia and New Zealand issued the recall due to the risk of biotoxin contamination (Botulinum toxin).

It comes after a person was hospitalised in NSW after presenting with “severe symptoms” of botulism.

Botullism is a rare but deadly illness caused by toxins that attack the nerves in the body.

Investigations by NSW Health found traces of botulinum toxin in a sample of the milk.

“The NSW Food Authority is investigating the manufacturing of the product to determine the possible cause of the contamination,” a statement from NSW Health said.

Inside Out Almond Milk (Collagen+Calcium+Prebiotics) 1 L has been recalled. Picture: Supplied

The product is sold at Woolworths stores in NSW. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sarah Marshall

The recall only applies to products sold in NSW stores, with the expiry date of 01 March 2023.

“Consumers should not [consume] this product,” the alert read.

“Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice and should return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund.”

NSW Health is calling on people to check the products in their fridge and cupboard.

“While foodborne botulism is very rare in Australia, the toxin can be extremely dangerous and can cause life-threatening illnesses,” NSW Health One Health branch Director Keira Glasgow said.

Early symptoms can take hours or days to appear and include weakness, fatigue and vertigo.

They are usually followed by blurred vision, dry mouth and difficulty swallowing.

Nausea and vomiting may also occur.

“These symptoms can progress to paralysis of the arm muscles and continue down the body to the trunk and legs, and paralysis of breathing muscles can be fatal,” Ms Glasgow said.

“We are urging anyone who has consumed this product and experiences these serious symptoms to seek immediate medical attention by visiting their nearest emergency department or calling triple-0 (000) for emergency assistance.”

Most cases of foodborne botulism recover if diagnosed and treated early.