FOOD TECHNOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The toxin is made most often by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. Improperly canned, preserved, or fermented foods can provide the right conditions for the bacteria to make the toxin.

Detailed explanation-2: -Botulism (“BOT-choo-liz-um”) is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that attacks the body’s nerves and causes difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and even death. This toxin is made by Clostridium botulinum and sometimes Clostridium butyricum and Clostridium baratii bacteria.

Detailed explanation-3: -The botulinum toxin has been found in a variety of foods, including low-acid preserved vegetables, such as green beans, spinach, mushrooms, and beets; fish, including canned tuna, fermented, salted and smoked fish; and meat products, such as ham and sausage.

Detailed explanation-4: -Why is it found in canned goods? The bacteria Clostridium botulinum releases the toxin that causes botulism as part of its natural anaerobic process, meaning it multiplies in an oxygen-free environment, like a sealed can, Schaffner said.

Detailed explanation-5: -Foodborne botulism can be prevented by following proper canning techniques and using the right equipment to avoid contamination, Andress said. For example, canning low-acid vegetables, meats, fish and poultry requires the use of a pressure canner, she said.