Little Mermaid Smoke House is recalling Smoked Herring and Pickled Herring fish because the products were found to be uneviscerated, and 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 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.
The following products are recalled:
| Little Mermaid Smoked Herring fish | Sold prior to 04/04/2013 |
| Little Mermaid Pickled Herring fish | Sold prior to 04/04/2013 |
The recalled products are manufactured by Little Mermaid Smoke House and distributed in the state of California. These products are sold as whole fish, packaged in vacuum sealed packaging, and labeled “Little Mermaid Smoke House” which varies in weight and size. There are no codes listed on the products. The recall includes products sold prior to 04/03/2013.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
Products were found to be uneviscerated during an inspection by the Food and Drug Administration. The sale of uneviscerated fish is prohibited because Clostridium botulinum spores are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish.
Consumers who have purchased Smoked and Pickled Herring fish are advised not to eat it and should return it to the place of purchase or discard for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company Little Mermaid Smoke House at (818)764-0005 Monday-Friday 9:00am to 4:00pm, Pacific Time Zone.
Source: FDA
