This Taco Bell Cheese Dip is Being Recalled for Potential Botulism

If you’ve purchased any Taco Bell brand cheese dip recently, you might want to check your cupboards. Kraft Heinz has voluntarily recalled approximately 7,000 cases of Taco Bell Salsa Con Queso Mild Cheese Dip over fears of botulism.

The company said the product is “showing signs of product separation,” which could create conditions that may allow for the growth of Clostridium botulinum — a bacterium that can cause life-threatening illness or death in some people.

While there have been no consumer complaints or reports of illness related to this issue, Kraft Heinz warned consumers should not use the dip “even if it does not look or smell spoiled.”

Not all jars are being recalled, so if you have one, check it against the following information to see if it’s is on the recall list: 15-ounce glass jar of Taco Bell Salsa Con Queso Mild Cheese Dip with “Best When Used By” dates of Dec. 27, 2018 or Jan. 23, 2019 and UPC numbers 021000024490 or 21000066900. 

No other sizes, varieties or code dates are included in the recall. If you purchased the product, again, do not eat it and simply return it the store where purchased for a refund.

Botulism is classified by the Centers for Disease Control as a “rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that attacks the body’s nerves.” Symptoms “usually start with weakness of the muscles that control the eyes, face, mouth and throat.” The weakness may then spread to the neck, arms, torso and legs. Botulism can also weaken the muscles involved in breathing, which can lead to death.

Other symptoms of botulism include dizziness, double vision, trouble with speaking or swallowing, and constipation. If you consumed the potentially-affected product and experience any of these symptoms, you should see visit an emergency room immediately.

If you have questions about the recall, you can call Kraft Heinz at 1-800-310-3704 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST.