The California Department of Health (CDPH) announced a recall of Olivier brand Parmesan & Asiago Dip with Garlic & Basil, manufactured by Olivier Olive Oil Products Inc., of Saint Helena, California. The cheese dip, sold at Williams-Sonoma nationwide, is being recalled due to a possible bacterial contamination of clostridium botulinum. The cheese dip was also sold at several retailers in St. Helena and Truckee, California.

Clostridium botulinum is a bacteria that can lead to botulism, a potentially life-threatening illness. Symptoms of botulism include difficulty breathing, dizziness, trouble speaking, trouble swallowing, constipation, and double-vision. People who experience any of these symptoms should immediately seek medical attention.

The dip products being recalled are packaged in 11.76 oz. jars and have lot code numbers of: OPA 34171, OPA 23471, OPA 17271, OPA 17671, OPA 36061, OPA 36161, and OPA 33961. The name Olivier Parmesan & Asiago Dip with Garlic & Basil is printed on the product label.

Consumers should immediately stop using the affected cheese dips even if they do not smell ?off? or look any different than normal. Consumers are encouraged to call the CDPH complaint hotline at 1-800-495-3232. Olivier Olive Oil Products, Inc. can also be reached at 1-916-440-7259.

Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration Release January 31, 2008.