Here’s what you need to know:
- Date: December 19, 2024
- Announced by: Food Safety News on January 23, 2025 and ongoing. Source, FDA.
- Company: River Valley Ranch Ltd
- Brand: River Valley Ranch
- Product: River Valley Ranch & Kitchens Spinach Artichoke Dip Mix
- Issue: Because of under-processing. Under-processing may lead to Clostridium botulinum contamination.
Keep reading to find out more!
What happened?
On December 19, 2024, River Valley Ranch issued a recall for their River Valley Ranch & Kitchens Spinach Artichoke Dip Mix because the product might be under procesed, which could cause Botulism. According to the details informed by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), this recall was initiated on Dec. 19, 2024, and is ongoing, although no announcement has been published. The recalled products were distributed in Wisconsin.
Company | Brand | Product | Size | UPC Code | Code information | Issue |
River Valley Ranch and Kitchens | River Valley Ranch and Kitchens | River Valley Ranch & Kitchens Spinach Artichoke Dip Mix | net wt. 16 oz. (453g) | 6 92016-40021 1 | BATCH: 40124113001 BATCH: 40124113002 BATCH: 40124113003 | Under-processing. Under-processing may lead to Clostridium botulinum contamination. |
What caused the issue?
Botulism is caused by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which produces a toxin that can be deadly. This toxin is one of the most potent neurotoxins known to science. When consumed, the toxin attacks the body’s nervous system, causing muscle paralysis.
Symptoms of Botulism
The symptoms of botulism can start anywhere from 6 hours to 36 hours after consuming contaminated food, but in some cases, they can appear as early as 3 hours or as late as 10 days later. Symptoms can include:
- Double vision or blurred vision
- Drooping eyelids
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing (this is one of the most serious symptoms, as it can lead to respiratory failure)
- A thick-feeling tongue
- Dry mouth
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
Botulism poisoning occurs because the botulinum toxin blocks nerve function by preventing the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter needed for muscle contraction. This leads to paralysis that can begin with smaller muscles (like those in your eyes and throat) and progress to larger muscle groups, including those used for breathing. If untreated, the paralysis can spread and become fatal.
Who’s Most at Risk?
While anyone can theoretically get botulism, certain groups are more vulnerable to the effects of the toxin. These groups include:
- Infants: Babies under 12 months are particularly susceptible to botulism, especially if they consume foods that contain botulinum spores. This is why honey is not recommended for infants under one year of age. Their digestive systems are not fully developed to handle the spores.
- Elderly adults: Older adults often have weaker immune systems, making them more susceptible to foodborne illnesses, including botulism. They may also be on medications or have underlying conditions that make them more vulnerable to infection.
- Pregnant women: Botulism can be more dangerous for pregnant women, as the toxin can affect the mother’s muscles and overall health. In rare cases, it can also affect the unborn child.
- People with weakened immune systems: Those with compromised immune systems—whether due to chronic diseases like cancer, HIV, or conditions like diabetes—are at higher risk of contracting foodborne illnesses like botulism.
- People with gastrointestinal issues: Individuals who have digestive problems, like gastroparesis, may have a higher risk because their bodies may not process contaminated food efficiently, increasing the chances of botulinum toxin being absorbed.
Because botulism is a rare but extremely serious illness, any signs of it should prompt immediate medical attention.
Let’s address some questions you might have regarding this recall:
1. What exactly is botulism?
Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by the toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. It can cause muscle paralysis and can be fatal if untreated.
2. How does botulism contaminate food?
Botulism bacteria grow in improperly processed or undercooked food, especially in anaerobic (low-oxygen) conditions, like sealed jars or vacuum-packed foods. If food isn’t heated or processed to kill the bacteria, it can produce toxins that cause illness.
3. How do I know if my spinach artichoke dip is affected by this recall?
Check the UPC code (6 92016-40021 1) and the batch codes (40124113001, 40124113002, 40124113003). The affected dip is sold in 16 oz. jars and was distributed in Wisconsin.
4. What are the symptoms of botulism poisoning?
Symptoms of botulism include double vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, dry mouth, and difficulty breathing. Seek medical help if you experience any of these symptoms.
5. What should I do if I’ve eaten the affected dip and feel sick?
If you experience any symptoms of botulism after eating the dip, seek medical attention immediately. Botulism can progress quickly, and early treatment is critical.
6. Can botulism be treated?
Yes, botulism can be treated with an antitoxin that neutralizes the toxin. The sooner treatment starts, the better the outcome. In some cases, patients may need mechanical ventilation if their breathing muscles are affected.
7. What should I do with the recalled product?
Do not consume it. Return the dip to the store for a refund or dispose of it safely. Contact River Valley Ranch Ltd. for further instructions or more information.
8. How can I tell if my food is safe to eat to avoid botulism?
Check expiration dates, seals, and packaging. If food has been improperly stored or appears damaged, it’s best to avoid it. When in doubt, throw it out! And always follow proper food handling and storage guidelines.
9. Can botulism be spread from person to person?
No, botulism is not contagious. It’s only contracted by consuming food that’s contaminated with the botulinum toxin.
10. How common is botulism poisoning from food?
Foodborne botulism is rare, with only about 20 cases reported annually in the United States. However, because it can be fatal, it’s important to take every recall seriously.
Here’s what you should do
If you have purchased this product, take action! Here’s how:
- Check the label:
UPC 6 92016-40021 1
Code Information: BATCH: 40124113001 BATCH: 40124113002 BATCH: 40124113003 - Identify the product:
River Valley Ranch & Kitchens Spinach Artichoke Dip Mix. net wt. 16 oz. (453g) - What you should do:
Retailers and consumers should not use, sell, serve or distribute the affected product. - Contact info:
The FDA hasn’t provided information on how to contact the company.
Behind the brand
River Valley Ranch & Kitchens is a mushroom farm and small-batch food producer located in Burlington, Wisconsin.
While this might be the first Botulsm scare we’ve had recently, is not the first bacteria that threatens the food industry this month. On January 17, 2025, Nature View Dairy issued a recall for its bottled raw milk after two confirmed cases of Campylobacter infections were linked to the product. And, on January 3, Abbey Specialty Foods from New Jersey recalled their Wicklow Gold Cheddar Nettle & Chive and Wicklow Gold Cheddar Tomato & Herb 5.2 oz packages for possible Listeria contamination.
Ensuring safe eats!
This recall is a reminder of why we should all be cautious about the food we buy and consume. Food safety isn’t just about “does it taste good?” — it’s about ensuring everything we eat is handled properly. This means adhering to processing standards, temperature regulations, and packaging techniques to ensure no one gets sick.
A simple mistake in processing can result in severe health risks. Consumers trust food brands to keep them safe, and one slip-up can cost them more than just a bad reputation.
“Food safety is non-negotiable, and incidents like this remind us of how crucial it is to maintain rigorous processing standards at every step of the supply chain. Even a small lapse can lead to serious health risks. As an industry, we must remain vigilant and transparent, ensuring that consumers can trust the quality and safety of every product they bring into their homes.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’s CEO.
Wanna know more about recalls like this one? Talk to our team!
