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California Company Recalls Imported Frozen Fish

By Dan Flynn and Suzanna Schreck

A California company is recalling imported frozen fish--Shishamo Roe Capelin--because of its potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum.
The recall by Pacific American Fish Co, Inc. of Vernon, CA was prompted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's regulation that salt-cured, uneviscerated fish must not be more than than 5 inches in length. The Shishamo in question exceeded that size parameter by 1/4 to 1 1/4 inches.
The sale of uneviscerated fish is regulated because Clostridium botulinum spores are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera. Uneviscerated fish have been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning.
The Shishamo Roe Capelin in retail packages can be identified as five pieces of frozen fish packaged in a styrofoam plate, wrapped in plastic. The label reads Pacific American Fish Co, Roe Capelin, and says Shishamo in Japanese script, also SHI306 Shishamo 4L 5PC (23-28G) Wild, Pack 4/20TR, Lots 202885-2 & 201011-3.
The product was distributed in California, Kansas, Hawaii, Washington, New York, Texas via retail stores. 
No illnesses have been reported in connection with the product. 
The fish may be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers may contact the company at 323-319-1503, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. PST for additional information. 

Full post as published by Food Safety News on February 25, 2011 (boomark / email).