A Brooklyn, NY, fish company that has an unresolved warning letter from FDA because of food safety problems at its facility is recalling lizard fish because it may be contaminated with the bacteria that causes botulism poisoning.
“The product was imported from Vietnam and is packed in uncoded bulk 15-kilogram boxes,” according to the recall notice.
“FDA analysis of the product confirmed that the fish was not properly eviscerated prior to processing. The company has ceased distribution of the product.”
Consumers are warned not to consume the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled, according to the recall. Improper evisceration — removal of the guts and internal organs — can result in the fish being contaminated with the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism poisoning.
Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled fish and developed symptoms of botulism poisoning should immediately seek medical attention and tell their doctors about the possible exposure to the bacterium.
Botulism can cause general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distention and constipation are also be common symptoms.
Consumers who have purchased the Lizard Fish can return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 718-782-6888.
Previous and ongoing problems at Arcadia Trading
The lizard fish recall is not the first for Arcadia Trading. In January 2015 the company recalled packages of red thread fish after officials found it was not properly eviscerated.
Problems for the company continued this year when an FDA inspection in July found “serious violations.” Arcadia Trading officials failed to adequately respond to FDA about the problems in a July 22 letter and the federal agency kept the Brooklyn company in its sights.
In a Sept. 14 warning letter, FDA repeated the observations from the July 6 and 7 inspection of the seafood importing firm. The observed violations rendered Arcadia’s refrigerated, vacuum-packed, salted croaker “adulterated” under the law.
“Your product specifications should state that the dried or salted croaker fish will be fully eviscerated and processed in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices,” the FDA letter said.
According to the FDA warning, the company does not have an adequate affirmative step to make sure that the imported product is processed in accordance with U.S. seafood regulations.
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from Food Recalls – Food Safety News http://ift.tt/2hArKwb
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