Who can’t get enough watermelon jelly.

The British Columbia Centre for Disease Control (that’s in Canada) is warning the public not to consume watermelon jelly prepared by Jamnation Fine Foods that were sold in 120 ml sized jars. This jelly was sold at charity booths in various locations in British Columbia in 2010. This product may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum. Toxins produced by this bacterium may cause botulism, a life-threatening illness.

“This recall was prompted by a suspect case of botulism on Vancouver Island, and the subsequent investigation of foods recently consumed by the individual,” explains Dr. Eleni Galanis, Physician Epidemiologist with BCCDC, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority. “Botulism is a serious illness, and it is critical that anyone who purchased this item discard it immediately.”

“The jelly consumed by the case was sold through the British Columbia Huntingtons Research Foundation charity booths in Duncan, and may also have been sold in other parts of province,” explains Sion Shyng, Food Safety Specialist at the BCCDC. “We’re concerned that this product may still be in the homes of consumers as jellies can be stored and consumed long after they are purchased.”

The BCCDC is currently working with BC Health Authorities and the BC Ministry of Health Services to ensure the recalled product is removed from distribution and is investigating any possible cases of illness.