botulism
/ˈbɑtʃəˌlɪzəm/
noun
- A serious illness caused by a toxin produced by bacteria, often from improperly canned or preserved food, leading to muscle paralysis.
- The health department warned that eating from bulging cans could cause botulism.
- Botulism is rare but can be fatal if not treated quickly.
- She was hospitalized with botulism after eating homemade pickles that weren't processed correctly.