Paralysis-causing bacteria prompts tri-state fish recall

Botulism fish recall overview: 

• Who: P. East Trading Corp. has recalled boxes of “Salted Smoked Split Herring.” 
• Why: The product may contain bacteria that causes botulism.
• Where: The recalled herring was distributed in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Boxes of fish sold in supermarkets all over New York, New Jersey and Connecticut have been recalled as the fish could contain bacteria that causes botulism, a paralyzing and life-threatening disease.

The recall was published to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) website on June 10. It applies to “Salted Smoked Split Herring” distributed by P. East Trading Corp. to retailers in 18-pound wooden boxes with container code Lot 1 PRC5073.

According to the recall, the product was inspected by New York food inspectors who found the herring was over 5″ in length and “uneviscerated,” which means it has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can cause botulism. Uneviscerated fish over 5″ in length may contain Clostridium botulinum spores as they are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish, the FDA explains.

Botulism is a paralyzing disease affecting the body’s nervous system, caused by the ingestion of one of the neurotoxins produced by the bacterium. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety & Inspection Service, this neurotoxin is “among the most toxic substances known” and even microscopic amounts can cause illness.

Symptoms of botulism include 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. 

Recall warns consumers not to eat the recalled herring under any circumstances

The FDA warned consumers not to eat the herring even if it does not look or smell spoiled.

P. East Trading Corp. has not reported any illnesses in regard to the fish so far, the recall says. The company is not currently facing legal action, but Top Class Actions follows recalls closely as they can sometimes result in lawsuits. 

Consumers who bought the recalled herring should return it to the place of purchase for a full refund, the recall states. 

Earlier this year, Tri-Union Seafoods issued a recall for select lots of canned tuna products sold under Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B and Trader Joe’s brand names over concerns they may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum.

Are you affected by this herring recall? Let us know in the comments! 

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