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Imported Smelt Recalled in Nine States

By Dan Flynn and Suzanna Schreck

A New York company is recalling fish imported from Japan because it has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, bacteria that can cause life-threatening botulism.
Daiei Trading Co., Inc. of College Point, NY is recalling Gourmet Family Brand Large Mouth Smelt Komochi Shishamo after a routine inspection by the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets found the product to be uneviscerated.
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 fish was sold in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Florida, Virginia, Georgia, Texas, North Carolina through retail stores.
Consumers are warned not to eat the fish.
Gourmet family Brand Large Mouth Smelt Komochi Shishamo is vaccum packed in uncoded styrofoam tray. Eight pieces are packed in each 3.5 oz. (100g) container.
Consumers who purchased Gourmet Family Brand Large Mouth Smelt Komochi Shishamo are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
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.

Full post as published by Food Safety News on March 04, 2011 (boomark / email).