NEW: Warning Issued for Botulism-Contaminated Herring

The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) advises consumers of salted, smoked, split herring that may be contaminated with botulinum spores. A routine sample collected at a retail store by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets found the product to be uneviscerated. Clostridium botulinum spores are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish.

 

It is unknown whether the product was sold in Rhode Island, but it was distributed in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, Florida, and Puerto Rico. The product was distributed in 18 lb wooden boxes (40-60 count) and packaged by retail stores in various weight ranges from ½ lb to 1.5 lb.

 

Botulinum spores can cause Botulism, a serious and potentially fatal food-borne illness.  Botulism can cause 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.

 

The product is being recalled by CFE International, Canadian Fish Exporters, Inc. of Auburndale, MA. The product’s lot number is 1171, Plant Code is 2406, and producer is Leslie Leger & Sons, Ltd. Cap Pele, NB, Canada.         

 

 

No illnesses have been reported to date.

Consumers are cautioned not to use this product, even if it does not look or smell spoiled, and it should be returned to the place of purchase.  Consumers with any questions can contact: James Scannell/Jeffrey Long,  CFE International  Canadian Fish Exporters, Inc.  134 Rumford Avenue, Suite 202, Auburndale, MA 02466-1377 or by telephone 617-924-8300 between 9:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

 

Link to Food and Drug Administration’s recall Web page: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm275345.htm