- Recall Date Issued: February 11, 2025
- Announced By: FDA on February 12, 2025
- Company: AKT Trading Inc.
- Product Name: Menma Ajitsuke Prepared Bamboo Shoots
- Issue: Potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum (botulism)
- Product Details: 8.8 oz plastic bag, expiration date 1/29/2025, JANCODE 4983673527332
- Action: Do not consume. Discard or return to the place of purchase for a refund.
Stick around to learn more!
What happened?
On February 11, 2025, AKT Trading Inc. issued a recall for 120 packages of Menma Ajitsuke Prepared Bamboo Shoots, distributed at Tokyo Central Costa Mesa in California. The recall is due to potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum, a dangerous bacterium that can cause life-threatening botulism poisoning.
The issue was discovered on January 14, 2025, when store staff at Tokyo Central Costa Mesa found the product being stored under ambient conditions without a “Keep Refrigerated” label. The missing refrigeration instructions likely contributed to the contamination risk.
Affected product:
Brand | Product | Size | UPC (JANCODE) | Best By Date | Issue |
CHOSHIYA | Menma Ajitsuke Bamboo Shoots | 8.8 oz | 4983673527332 | 1/29/2025 | Missing refrigeration label, potential botulism |
What caused the issue?
The culprit? Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that thrives in improperly stored or preserved foods. It is found in soil and water that produces botulinum toxin, one of the most potent neurotoxins known to humans. While the bacterium itself isn’t harmful, the toxins it produces under certain conditions can cause botulism, a rare but potentially fatal illness. These conditions often arise when foods are improperly stored or preserved, especially in anaerobic (oxygen-free) environments like canned or vacuum-sealed products.
How does Clostridium botulinum affect health?
If ingested, the botulinum toxin can disrupt nerve function, leading to symptoms that may appear within 6 hours to 10 days after exposure.
Common symptoms of botulism:
- General weakness and fatigue
- Dizziness and double vision
- Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathing
- Abdominal distension and constipation
- Muscle paralysis in severe cases
Without treatment, botulism can lead to respiratory failure or even death. Early diagnosis and administration of an antitoxin are critical for recovery.
- How do I know if my product is affected by this recall?
Check the label for the JANCODE (UPC) 4983673527332 and the expiration date of 1/29/2025. If your Menma Ajitsuke Bamboo Shoots match this information, it’s part of the recall. - What should I do with the recalled product?
Do not consume it. Either discard it immediately or return it to the store for a full refund. - Can I get botulism even if the product looks and smells fine?
Yes. Botulinum toxin doesn’t change the appearance or smell of food, so it can still be dangerous even if the product seems normal. - What are the early signs of botulism?
Symptoms usually begin with weakness, dizziness, and double vision. Difficulty swallowing and speaking, along with respiratory distress, may follow. - Is there a treatment for botulism?
Yes, treatment involves botulinum antitoxin and supportive care. If you suspect botulism, seek immediate medical attention. - How serious is botulism?
Botulism is a serious illness that can lead to respiratory failure if untreated. However, with prompt medical intervention, most people recover fully. - Can botulism spread from person to person?
No, botulism isn’t contagious. It’s caused by ingesting contaminated food. - Are there any other recalls related to botulism?
Recalls due to Clostridium botulinum contamination are rare but not unheard of. Check the FDA’s recall page for recent updates. - How can I prevent botulism at home?
Store perishable foods properly, follow canning guidelines carefully, and avoid eating food from swollen or leaking containers. - Who can I contact for more information?
Contact AKT Trading Inc. at 310-715-2174 or [email protected].
Here’s what you should do
If you’ve got one of these bags of Menma Ajitsuke Prepared Bamboo Shoots, here’s what to do:
- Check the label for the expiration date (1/29/2025) and JANCODE (4983673527332).
- Do not consume the product, even if it smells and looks fine.
- Discard the product or return it to the store for a full refund.
- Questions? Contact AKT Trading Inc. at 310-715-2174 or [email protected].
Behind the brand
Based in Torrance, California, AKT Trading Inc. specializes in importing Japanese food products. While this recall is serious, AKT Trading is fully cooperating with the FDA and taking swift action to ensure consumer safety. This isn’t the first recall related to Clostridium botulinum—similar issues have popped up this week, such as Tri-Union Seafoods’ recall of its Tuna products, making it a crucial focus for retailers and manufacturers alike.
“Food safety goes beyond regulations—it’s about safeguarding consumers and maintaining brand integrity. Proactive quality control and proper storage protocols are non-negotiable for high-risk products like fermented vegetables and ready-to-eat items. In today’s competitive market, a strong commitment to safety isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity for lasting success.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’s CEO.
Ensuring safe eats
Recalls like this highlight the importance of proper labeling and storage for perishable products. Clostridium botulinum may be rare, but the risks are too great to ignore. For manufacturers and importers, it’s a valuable reminder to double down on quality control and food safety measures to avoid similar issues.
If you’re sourcing ingredients for your brand, you must work with reliable suppliers who prioritize safety and regulatory compliance. Need expert advice or are you looking for high-quality ingredients? Contact Source86 today to explore our range of safe, reliable options!
