FDA Issues Highest-Level Warning Over Garlic Recall Due To Botulism Risk

Peeled garlic sold at Tops grocery stores in three states has been recalled due to improper storage and potential bacterial growth.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 11:57pm

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class I recall for Christopher Ranch Peeled Garlic sold at Tops grocery stores in New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont. The recall is due to the garlic being improperly stored at temperatures outside the recommended range, which could lead to the growth of Clostridium botulinum bacteria and the development of botulism toxin.

Why it matters

Botulism is a rare but serious and potentially fatal form of food poisoning caused by a nerve toxin produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacteria. Consuming food contaminated with botulism toxin can lead to paralysis, respiratory failure, and death if not treated promptly. This recall highlights the importance of proper food storage and handling to prevent the growth of dangerous bacteria.

The details

The affected garlic was sold in 6-ounce containers and contains the UPC codes 00068826753408 and 00071894000005. All best-by dates are included in the recall. Tops grocery stores will issue refunds to customers who return the affected products with valid proof of purchase. Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators and discard any of the recalled garlic immediately.

  • The Class I recall was announced on March 27, 2026 by Tops grocery stores.

The players

Christopher Ranch

The manufacturer of the recalled peeled garlic products.

Tops

The grocery store chain that sold the affected garlic products in New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont.

FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which issued the highest-level recall warning for the garlic products due to the botulism risk.

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What’s next

Tops grocery stores will issue refunds to customers who return the affected garlic products with valid proof of purchase.

The takeaway

This recall highlights the critical importance of proper food storage and handling to prevent the growth of dangerous bacteria like Clostridium botulinum, which can lead to the potentially fatal illness of botulism. Consumers should be vigilant about checking their refrigerators and discarding any recalled food items immediately.