# Major Recall Alert: Prepared Vegetable Products Recalled Due to Potential Risk of Clostridium botulinum
Consumers, take caution. A major recall has been announced involving prepared vegetable products sold under multiple brands due to the potential presence of *Clostridium botulinum*, a dangerous bacterium that can cause life-threatening illness. AKT Trading Inc., in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is recalling specific prepared vegetable products manufactured by Choshiya Honten Co., Ltd. Read on to find out why this recall is significant, which products are affected, and how you can stay safe.
## Why This Recall is Important
Botulism, caused by the bacterium *Clostridium botulinum*, is one of the most severe forms of foodborne illness. This bacterium can produce a toxin that leads to life-threatening symptoms, including:
- General weakness
- Dizziness
- Double vision
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
- Abdominal distension and constipation
- Weakness of the respiratory system, which can be fatal
The root cause of this recall lies in a packaging oversight — the products lacked the essential "Keep Refrigerated" label. If stored at room temperature, these products can become a breeding ground for *Clostridium botulinum*. Even if the food does not appear or smell spoiled, consuming it can result in severe illness. The recall is being carried out to protect consumers and prevent any serious health risks.
## Details of the Recall
Here’s what you need to know about the affected products:
- **Category**: Prepared vegetable products
- **Brands**: Multiple brands, distributed by AKT Trading Inc.
- **Retail Locations**: Tokyo Central / Marukai stores in California
- **Packaging**: Plastic bags
- **Discovery Date**: February 18, 2025
- **Key Issue**: Missing "Keep Refrigerated" label
As soon as the issue was identified, the affected products were removed from store shelves. Steps are being taken to ensure proper labeling and consumer safety moving forward.
For more information, you can visit the official FDA recall announcement here: [AKT Trading Inc. Recall Notification](https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/akt-trading-inc-recalls-prepared-vegetable-products-because-possible-health-risk).
## What You Should Do
If you’ve purchased prepared vegetable products from Tokyo Central or Marukai stores in California, here’s what to do:
- **Do not consume the product, even if it looks or smells fine.**
- **Dispose of it properly** or return it to the store for a full refund.
- **If you’re experiencing symptoms associated with botulism**, contact a healthcare professional immediately.
Consumers with additional questions can contact AKT Trading Inc. at **310-715-2174** (Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM PST) or email **info@aktusa.com**.
AKT Trading Inc. is working alongside the FDA to ensure all necessary safety measures are taken. Your health and safety remain a top priority.
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By staying educated and vigilant, you can avoid health risks like botulism and ensure peace of mind when consuming store-bought products. Remember, your safety comes first.