# Major Recall Alert: Menma Ajitsuke Prepared Bamboo Shoot Recalled Due to Potential Foodborne Illness - Botulism
If you’ve recently purchased *Menma Ajitsuke Prepared Bamboo Shoot* from CHOSHIYA, it’s time to check your pantry. AKT Trading Inc., based in Torrance, California, has issued a voluntary recall of this product due to the potential presence of *Clostridium botulinum*—a bacterium that can cause serious and potentially life-threatening botulism. Here's everything you need to know about this urgent recall and how to protect yourself and your family.
## Why This Recall is Important
Botulism is a rare but severe form of foodborne illness caused by a toxin produced by *Clostridium botulinum*. This condition can lead to grave symptoms like:
- General weakness and dizziness
- Double vision
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal issues, including distension and constipation
If left untreated, botulism can be fatal. While no illnesses linked to this product have been reported to date, AKT Trading Inc. initiated the recall as a precaution after the product was found being sold under ambient (non-refrigerated) conditions at the Tokyo Central store in Costa Mesa, California. The absence of a "Keep Refrigerated" label likely contributed to the potential contamination risk.
## Details of the Recall
Here’s what consumers need to know about the recalled product:
- **Product Name**: Menma Ajitsuke Prepared Bamboo Shoot
- **Brand**: CHOSHIYA
- **Manufacturer**: AKT Trading Inc.
- **Issue**: Potential contamination with *Clostridium botulinum*
- **Packaging**: Plastic bags
- **Where Distributed**: Tokyo Central Costa Mesa store in Costa Mesa, California
- **Reason for Recall**: Missing "Keep Refrigerated" label leading to improper storage conditions
The affected product was identified on **January 14, 2025**, during a routine inspection and has since been removed from sale.
### Symptoms to Watch For
If you or anyone you know has consumed this product, keep an eye out for botulism symptoms, including muscle weakness, breathing difficulties, or digestive problems. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop.
## What You Should Do
To minimize your risk, follow these guidelines if you’ve purchased this product:
- **Do not consume the product**, even if it looks or smells fine.
- **Dispose of it safely** or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- If you have questions or concerns, contact AKT Trading Inc. at **310-715-2174** or email them at **info@aktusa.com**.
This recall is being conducted in cooperation with the **U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)**. For more details, visit the official FDA recall announcement here: [FDA Recall Notice](https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/akt-trading-inc-recalls-seasoned-bamboo-shoots-because-possible-health-risk).
## Stay Safe – Get Instant Recall Alerts
Food recalls can happen at any time, and staying informed is crucial to keeping your household safe. Download our free recall app today to receive real-time alerts on product recalls, safety notices, and more. Don’t wait—be proactive and protect what matters most.
Stay vigilant and share this important information with others who might have purchased this product. Maintaining food safety starts with awareness, so let’s all do our part.