The FDA announced a recall by Haifa Smoked Fish, Inc. on February 3, 2010. This recall of vacuum packed Whole Schmaltz Herring has highlighted the link between improperly eviscerated fish and potential botulism food poisoning. Because the viscera of fish are typically more likely to contain Clostridium botulinum than other segments of a fish, the sale of fish containing viscera is prohibited in New York. Botulism is a foodborne illness which can result in respiratory problems, constipation, muscle aches, and can potentially be fatal, especially in very young children and people with weakened immune systems.
According to the voluntary recall:
Haifa Smoked Fish, located in Queens, New York, is recalling Haifa brand vacuum packaged Whole Schmaltz Herring with the lot number 20, because the product was found to be uneviscerated.
The lot being recalled is a product of Norway, individually vacuum-packed in clear plastic pouches with lot # 20 indicated on the label and distributed through various food retailers in the NY and NJ area.
The Whole Schmaltz Herring was sampled by a New York State Agriculture and Markets Food Inspector during a routine inspection. Subsequent analysis of the product by New York State Food Laboratory personnel confirmed that Whole Schmaltz Herring was not properly eviscerated prior to processing.
The sale of uneviscerated fish is prohibited under New York State Agriculture and Markets regulations because of Clostridium Botulinum spores are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish. Uneviscerated fish has been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning.
Botulism is a serious and potentially fatal form of food poisoning, causes the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.
