What You Should Know About The Latest Smoked Fish Recall
As you start planning out ideas for your Christmas Day and New Year's Day brunches and appetizers, you might want to know about the latest food recall — this one involving the popular holiday fare of smoked fish. On December 21, the FDA released an announcement that Haifa Smoked Fish out of Jamaica, New York is recalling its 8-ounce packages of Turbot Cold Smoked fish because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria. Specifically, the lot of products labeled #246 is what is being recalled (you can find that information on a sticker on the back of the packaging).
According to the release, it's said that about 230 pounds of the product was delivered to retailers in New York and New Jersey. A description of the item was provided as well: "The product is packaged in clear plastic with a gold board that contains sliced Turbot fish, with a blue label that reads 'Haifa Smoked Fish & Caviar Turbot Smoked Cold.'" The recall was initiated after procedural tests performed by the New York State Department of Agriculture discovered the presence of the germ Listeria monocytogenes in the product. Haifa Smoked Fish says they are looking into what caused the contamination and are urging anyone with potentially infected products to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Listeria infection can be serious
Thankfully, according to Food Safety News, as of the time of the statement, no illnesses have yet been reported related to this food recall. Per the CDC, listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria, mostly impacts babies, seniors, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. Infected individuals may start to experience symptoms, which can include fever, diarrhea, muscle aches, headaches, and confusion, among other ailments — these can take effect about one to four weeks after experiencing food poisoning. Pregnant women may also find themselves with flu-like symptoms which may be mild; however, listeriosis can have serious effects on fetuses and can cause miscarriage and stillbirth.
Customers who have purchased packages of Haifa Smoked Fish's Turbot Cold Smoked that are under this recall are encouraged to return it to the retailer they bought it from and will receive a full refund. Those with questions can call the company at 718-523-8899 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (via the FDA).