Tops Recalls Garlic Over Botulism Risk

FDA issues Class I recall for improperly stored peeled garlic sold in Northeast

Mar. 28, 2026 at 10:18pm

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The Food and Drug Administration has issued a Class I recall for peeled garlic sold under the Christopher Ranch brand at Tops grocery stores in New York, Vermont, and Pennsylvania due to a potential botulism risk. The garlic was improperly stored in open-air coolers instead of the required temperature range of 32-37 degrees, which could allow the growth of the dangerous botulism bacteria.

Why it matters

Botulism is a rare but serious and potentially fatal form of food poisoning caused by a nerve toxin. This recall highlights the importance of proper food storage and handling to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, especially in perishable items like fresh garlic.

The details

The affected garlic was sold in 6-ounce containers at Tops stores and contains the UPC codes 00068826753408 and 00071894000005. All best-by dates are included in the recall. Tops is offering a full refund to customers who return the recalled garlic with a valid proof of purchase.

  • The FDA issued the Class I recall on March 27, 2026.

The players

Food and Drug Administration

The federal agency responsible for protecting public health by regulating food, drugs, and other consumer products.

Christopher Ranch

The brand name of the peeled garlic that is subject to the recall.

Tops

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

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What’s next

Consumers who purchased the recalled garlic should return it to Tops for a full refund.

The takeaway

This botulism-related recall underscores the critical importance of proper food storage and handling to prevent the growth of dangerous bacteria, especially in perishable items like fresh produce.