Moscahlades Bros Inc. of Paterson, NJ is recalling Hellas Golden Double Smoked Herring because it has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.
Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, 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.
Hellas Golden Double Smoked Herring was distributed to IL, MD, MI, MA, NC, NY, and NJ. The product was sold in retail stores.
The product is in vacuum pack clear plastic packaging with a white label. The brand name is HELLAS from KARAGOUNIS BROS SA and imported by MOSCAHLADES BROS INC. There are two lots. LOT# L180314F33, Production date 18/3/14, Best Before 18/3/15, shipped March 2014. The second lot production date is 14/10/2014, Best Before 14/10/2015, Lot# L141014F33 shipped October 2014.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
During a routine inspection by FDA of Karagounis Bros SA in Greece it was discovered the herring was uneviscerated.
Consumers who have purchased Hellas Golden Double Smoked Herring are urged to return the product at the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact Moscahlades Bros lnc., at 973-881-1960, Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm, Eastern Standard Time.
Source: FDA
