Armenian health authorities warn of botulism risk from home-canned foods during holidays

Armenia’s National Center for Disease Control and Prevention has urged the public to be cautious when consuming home-canned foods over the New Year holidays, warning of the risk of botulism, a rare but potentially fatal form of food poisoning.

Botulism is caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and is most commonly linked to improperly prepared or stored homemade preserves, the agency said on Monday. Vegetables and fish canned at home pose a particular risk.

Consumers are advised to avoid cans with bulging or damaged lids, unpleasant odors or suspicious appearance, noting that contaminated products may not always smell or taste unusual. The health authorities warn against tasting questionable foods and recommend boiling home-canned products for at least 10–15 minutes before consumption. Factory-produced foods are considered safer.

Symptoms of botulism include blurred or double vision, drooping eyelids, difficulty speaking or swallowing, muscle weakness, breathing problems, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical help immediately or call emergency services, the agency says, stressing that timely treatment can save lives.