Health Canada recalls drink over bacteria that causes facial paralysis and death

A drink has been recalled in Canada due to the potential presence of a dangerous bacteria that could cause facial paralysis.

Nuba's carob drink is being recalled because it may permit the growth of Clostridium botulinum. The drink is made using cold brewed carob pods, and has a slight chocolate flavour.

It's been sold in Ontario as well as Quebec and Nova Scotia, and may have been distributed in other provinces too.

If contaminated with the bacteria, food may not look or smell spoiled but can still make you very sick.

Adult symptoms can include facial paralysis or loss of facial expression, unreactive or fixed pupils, difficulty swallowing, drooping eyelids, blurred or double vision, difficulty speaking, including slurred speech, and a change in sound of voice including hoarseness, and very severe cases can even be fatal.

Children's symptoms of foodborne botulism can include difficulty swallowing, slurred speech, generalized weakness and paralysis.

No illnesses have been reported associated with the consumption of this product.

The recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the location where they were purchased, and contact your healthcare provider if you think you became sick from the product.