Castleberry’s recalled several canned foods in 2007 after possible botulinum toxin contamination was linked to its Augusta, Georgia, plant. The recall included chili, beef stew, and other products sold under Castleberry’s and related brand names.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the company acted after laboratory testing and an investigation raised concern that the plant’s low-acid canned foods might have been inadequately processed. Botulinum toxin is produced by Clostridium botulinum and can cause botulism, a serious illness affecting nerves and muscles.
Consumers were told not to use the affected products, even if the cans looked normal. Canned foods can be dangerous without obvious changes in appearance, smell, or taste. The incident prompted a broad withdrawal and intensified attention to time-and-temperature controls in commercial canning.
Castleberry’s is sometimes confused with Campbell’s because both sold canned chili and prepared foods. The recall’s specific company was Castleberry’s Food Company.