MAUI -- A Maui man hospitalized after eating a can of chili that was part of a nationwide botulism recall was released Saturday morning.

A hospital supervisor at Maui Memorial said Jonathan Stockton's condition had improved, although he was feeling some of the symptoms of botulism -- including facial paralysis.

Stockton, 33, became ill earlier in the week after eating a can of Cattle Drive chili, one of a number of canned meat products manufactured by Castleberry's Food Co.

Botulism is a rare, but serious illness caused by eating foods tainted by toxic bacteria that affects the nervous system and can cause paralysis or even death.

The state health department has sent specimens from Stockton to the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta to confirm the cause of his illness.

If anyone has bought any of the recalled products they should not open or consume them.

The state health department said it recommends a person to "double bag" the cans in plastic bags and tape the bags shut before throwing them away.

If the cans are swollen, bulging or leaking -- or if they have been opened -- a person should use gloves and eye protection. After disposing of the product, one should wash his or her hands with soap and running water for at least two minutes.

The recall from Castleberry's Foods affects products sold under many different names.

Related Stories:

• Maui Man Appears Sickened By Recalled Food
• Health Officials Investigate Potential Botulism Case