Preventing Botulism

High temperatures can destroy the botulism toxin. Strategies to prevent botulism include:

• Do not feed honey to children less than one year old.
• Refrigerate oils that contain garlic or herbs.
• Bake potatoes without foil. If potatoes are wrapped in foil, keep them hot until served or refrigerate them.
• Do not taste foods that appear spoiled.
• Do not eat food from a can that is bulging.
• Boil home-canned foods for 10 to 20 minutes before eating.
• Practice good hygiene when canning. Follow government recommendations.
• Seek medical care for wounds. Return to the doctor if a wound looks infected (redness, warmth, pus, tenderness).
• Do not inject illicit drugs.