The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an alert regarding certain frozen, raw, half-shell oysters from the Republic of Korea due to potential contamination with norovirus. Norovirus is a highly contagious pathogen that can cause severe gastroenteritis.
Background
The alert was issued after multiple cases of norovirus infection were reported to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) in connection with consumption of certain oysters. The CDPH then notified the FDA.
Distribution
The affected product was shipped to retailers and restaurants in Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Nevada, Texas, Utah, and Washington. The implicated oysters may have been sent to other states, yet to be identified.
Product Details
- Product – Frozen half shell oysters
- Processor Name – JBR KR-15-SP in Tongyeong-si, Republic of Korea
- Harvest Date – January 30, 2025
- Harvest Area – Designated Area I in the Republic of Korea
- Lot Code – B250130
- Best Before Date – January 30, 2027
Consumer and Commercial Action
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected product even if it looks or smells safe to eat.
Consumers or restaurants and retailers in possession of the recalled product are requested to not sell, serve, donate, or distribute them.
The affected product should be disposed of immediately.
Consumers, restaurants, and retailers should thoroughly sanitize any surface or utensils that have come into contact with the recalled products.
Health Risks
Illnesses in connection with the consumption of these oysters have been reported. Consumers who have been exposed to the recalled oysters, and are experiencing symptoms of norovirus infection, should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Norovirus contamination poses a significant health risk, particularly to individuals with compromised immune systems. What makes norovirus contamination especially concerning is that infected food often appears, smells, and tastes normal, making it difficult to detect without proper testing.
Symptoms of norovirus infection typically include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. These symptoms can be particularly severe in vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
In recent months, multiple recalls and safety alerts have been issued for raw oysters due to potential norovirus contamination, including:
