Haifa Smoked Fish of Queens, New York, is recalling its Cold Smoked Sprats after federal inspectors found the product was made without the controls needed to stop dangerous toxin formation. The recalled fish was sold through retail stores in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, and the Food and Drug Administration announced the action this week. No illnesses have been reported so far.
What inspectors found
According to the FDA, an inspection showed the company was producing cold-smoked sprats without the food safety controls required to prevent the growth of Clostridium botulinum and the formation of its toxin. Cold smoking keeps fish at low temperatures, which means it does not reliably kill the bacterium's spores. Without proper controls, such as validated processing steps and storage limits, the toxin can develop in the product even when the fish looks and smells normal.
Why botulism is a serious concern
Botulism is a rare but potentially fatal illness caused by a toxin that attacks the nervous system. The FDA lists early symptoms that include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, trouble speaking or swallowing, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms can include weakness in other muscles, abdominal swelling and constipation. Anyone who develops these symptoms after eating smoked fish should seek medical care immediately.
What shoppers should do now
Customers who bought the recalled sprats should not eat them, even if the fish appears fine. The FDA advises returning the product to the store where it was bought for a refund. Shoppers with questions can call the company at 718-523-8899 during standard business hours. Because the recall covers only the product described in the FDA announcement, consumers should check package details and the store where they purchased it before deciding whether their fish is affected.