Bottled drinks claiming to boost memory and focus are being urgently recalled over fears they are contaminated with a deadly toxin.
Liquid Blenz Corp of Rockville Center, New York, is recalling all units of its Good Brain Tonic because of the potential risk of botulism.
Botulism is a rare illness caused by the toxic bacteria Clostridium botulinum. It attacks the nervous system and can cause breathing difficulties, muscle paralysis and death.
Symptoms include muscle weakness, dizziness, double vision, trouble speaking or swallowing, a swollen abdomen and constipation. They typically appear 12 to 36 hours after exposure.
Good Brain Tonic drinks were sold nationwide in retail stores and via online sales.
The recall applies to 16oz and 32oz amber bottles with a plastic cap. The universal product code for the smaller size is 860010984468 and for the larger size, it is 860010984475.
No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall, but customers are urged to return the recalled products to the place of purchase for a refund.
The potential contamination was discovered through analysis by the Cornell Food Venture Center and testing by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Market Food Inspectors.
Good Brain Tonic drinks were sold nationwide in retail stores and via online sales (stock image)
The above is a label from the 16oz version of the recalled product
C. botulinum is found naturally in soil, dust and untreated water. The spores lie dormant and are typically harmless.
However, they can produce dangerous neurotoxins in low-oxygen and low-acidic environments, most often in improperly canned foods or foods stored at inadequate temperatures.
The bacteria can grow at temperatures from 38F (3.3C), which is just above the standard temperature of 37F (3C) of a typical refrigerator.
Many patients suffering from botulism are hospitalized.
Patients may be treated using drugs that neutralize the toxin, placed on a ventilator or receive surgery.
Doctors say treatment works best if it is started early during the infection. Sufferers tend to make a slow recovery from botulism.
Thanks to modern medical treatment, only around five in every 100 patients in the US who develop botulism die from the condition.
Officials say the members of the public most at risk are children and those who have an underlying problem with their nerves or muscles.
