Krasnyi Oktyabr Inc. in Brooklyn, NY, is recalling Vobla (Roach) Dry Eviscerated Salted Fish and Bream Dry Eviscerated Salted Fish because they have 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 products even if they do not look or smell spoiled.
Botulism, a potential fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, blurred or double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing weakness of other muscles abdominal distention and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
The products were imported from Russia and sold to retail stores in New York and California from February through April 2016.
The products are sold in un-coded clear, vacuum pack plastic bags, each weighing 5.29 ounces:
- VOBLA (ROACH) DRY EVISCERATED SALTED FISH, UPC 4606495-001308;
- BREAM – DRY EVISCERATED SALTED FISH, UPC 4606495001346
The potential for contamination was noted after routine sampling and inspection by the US Food and Drug Administration and subsequent analysis of the Bream fish by the FDA confirmed that the Bream fish was not properly eviscerated prior to processing.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
Consumers who have purchased Vobla Dry Eviscerated Salted Fish and Bream Dry Eviscerated Salted Fish are advised not to eat them, but should return them to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 718-858-6720, Monday – Friday, 9 am – 4 pm EDT.
Source: FDA
