Clostridium botulinum causes one of the most severe foodborne intoxications, with a 50% mortality rate if not treated. Fortunately, outbreaks with C. botulinum are quite rare and the number of cases reported in the US are typically low. However, there was a recent outbreak that originated in France that is worth noting. Improperly canned sardines are thought to be the cause of this outbreak which has sickened at least 12 people and lead to at least one death. In this case, the restaurant owner opened some jars of sardines and threw them out because they smelled spoiled, but served patrons from the other jars because there were no strong smells. It was difficult for some patients to receive appropriate treatment because C. botulinum intoxication was not suspected since it is typically so uncommon. Just another example of how foodborne pathogens can lead to serious illness while remaining below the levels required for spoilage.
