Foods Co., Ltd. is recalling frozen dried mackerel and dried round scad after US Food and Drug Administration personnel informed us that the product was not properly eviscerated prior to processing due to the presence of gills.
This product may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause botulism, a serious and potentially fatal foodborne illness.
The sale of improperly eviscerated fish, 5 inches in length or greater, is prohibited because Clostridium botulinum spores are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish. Un-eviscerated fish has been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning which may pose a potentially life-threatening health hazard. Symptoms of botulism include blurred or double vision, general weakness, poor reflexes, difficulty swallowing and respiratory paralysis which may lead to death. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
The following recalled products are sold to wholesale distributors and retail:
- Dried Mackerel (Hasa Hasa) under the Pacific Isles Brand from the Philippines pack in 8oz. Product package in plastic bags / lot or code on the product label. Lot# 3298 and Lot# 0760
- Dried Round Scad (Galunggong) under the Pacific Isles Brand from the Philippines in 8oz. Product package in plastic bags / lot or code on the product label. Lot# 3228 and Lot# 3168
Products are distributed nationwide.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. Consumers who have the above products are advised not to eat it, but should return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at Tel: (323) 722-8648, M-F, 9AM to 5PM (PST).
Source: FDA
