The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall by Vasco & Company Seafood, LLC of a specific lot of its Filet Royal Smoked Atlantic Salmon product in Canada due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria). Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
The recall was initiated after testing by CFIA revealed the potential presence of Listeria.
CFIA is currently conducting a food safety investigation into the incident, which may lead to additional product recalls.
As part of its standard recall process, CFIA will verify that retailers remove the affected product from store shelves.
Distribution
The recalled product was only distributed in the Canadian province of Quebec.
Product Details
- Product Brand – Vasco & Co.
- Product Name – Filet Royal Smoked Atlantic Salmon
- Size – 170 g
- Lot Number – 399417
Consumer Action
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected products even if they look or smell safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled products are requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
The recall notice did not say if the impacted product could be returned to place of purchase for a refund and so at a minimum should be disposed of immediately.
Consumers should thoroughly sanitize any surface or utensils that came into contact with the recalled product.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact CFIA toll free in Canada and the United States at 800-442-2342 or by email at [email protected].
Health Risks
There have not been any reports of illness or injury in connection with the consumption of the impacted products.
Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, is particularly dangerous for certain vulnerable populations. Pregnant individuals, people aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems are at highest risk. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, sometimes preceded by gastrointestinal symptoms. In pregnant individuals, listeriosis can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of Listeriosis should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
In June, Food Poisoning News reported on a similar recall of smoked salmon from Foppen Seafood due to Listeria contamination.
Commenting on this article, one national Listeria lawyer said, “Listeria has the potential to cause extremely dangerous foodborne illness. I strongly advise consumers to search for the recalled product and follow all recall instructions.”
