Hallandale, Florida-based North Fish USA Inc. has initiated a recall for their imported packages of Cold Smoked Capelin fish due to potential risk of Clostridium botulinum contamination. Clostridium botulinum is a bacterium that causes botulism, a type of food poisoning that can cause severe or fatal illness.
Background
The recall was prompted after the product was found to exceed the 5-inch length limit and was uneviscerated, posing a potential Clostridium botulinum risk.
Routine inspection by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Market Foods uncovered the potential for contamination. Subsequent testing confirmed the initial findings.
The affected product was sent to distributors in New York and Georgia who were to distribute the product to retail locations along the east coast of the United States.
Product Details
- Product Name – North Fish USA Inc. Cold Smoked Capelin
- Size – 9 oz
- UPC Code – 4811527003360
- Best Before Dates – July 13, 2024 and January 5, 2025
- Country of Origin – Belarus
Consumer Action
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised not to eat this product, even if it looks or smells safe to consume.
Consumers can dispose of the recalled product or return it to the point of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can call the company at 954-251-2021 Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm EST.
Health Risks
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this recall.
Clostridium botulinum is the bacterium responsible for botulism. Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. The most common source of infection is consuming contaminated food, often due to improper handling or preservation. Homemade pickled foods and improperly canned goods are frequent culprits.
Symptoms of botulism typically appear within 12 to 72 hours after exposure, though they can manifest as early as two hours or as late as eight days post-consumption. Symptoms may present as gastrointestinal distress, fatigue, blurred vision, or muscle weakness.
There have been several cases of botulism in the news this summer Food Poisoning News has recently reported on the hospitalization of two sisters from botulism in California, a recall of canned coffee drinks over the potential for botulism contamination, and an outbreak of botulism linked to a food delivery service in Moscow that lead to the hospitalization of 121 people.
Commenting on this story, one national botulism lawyer said, “Three to five percent of botulism cases prove fatal, meaning that three to five people out of 100 people will die if infected. Anyone who believes they are experiencing symptoms of botulism should seek medical help immediately.”
