On March 3, 2025, AKT Trading Inc., based in Torrance, California, initiated a recall of certain prepared vegetable products manufactured by Choshiya Honten Co., Ltd. The recall is due to the absence of the required ""Keep Refrigerated"" statement on the packaging, which could lead to the growth of Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can cause life-threatening illness or death. Clostridium botulinum can cause botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning. Symptoms include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, trouble with speaking or swallowing, difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, abdominal distension, and constipation.
The products were distributed at Tokyo Central and Marukai stores located in California, including locations in Gardena, Cupertino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Torrance, Costa Mesa, West Covina, and Yorba Linda.