Big Blue Fisheries is recalling all smoked fish products due to botulism risk. All lots, codes and sizes sold in vacuum packages are being recalled because the products may not have been properly cooked and have the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that causes botulism, which can be life-threatening or fatal. Consumers who have purchased this product should not eat it. To date, there have been no reported illnesses or consumer complaints.
Botulism symptoms include: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation can also occur Anyone with these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
The recall was issued after Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) conducted a routine inspection and discovered that some of their products may not have been properly cooked. The firm’s products, sold under Big Blue Fisheries brand and Sitka Alaska Smoked Fish brand, were distributed locally in Sitka, Alaska and wholesale nationwide between 09/24/11 to 09/24/13. The recalled products were also sold through the company’s website.
The recalled products were sold in vacuum packed plastic packages with labels located on the front that include the pack date 9/24/11 and 9/24/13 and AK#604. They include: Pepper Smoked King Salmon ½lb to 1 lb Between, Hickory Smoked King Salmon, Teriyaki Smoked King Salmon, Hickory Smoked Black Cod, Smoked Coho Salmon Bellies, Smoked King Salmon Bellies, Hickory Smoked Coho Salmon, Pepper Smoked Coho Salmon, Teriyaki Smoked Coho Salmon, Smoked Wild Silver (Coho) Salmon Filet 1lb to 2.5lbs, Variety Smoke Pack 1.5lbs.
