Seaquest Seafood Corp of California is recalling its dehydrated and marinated uneviscerated fish because they may be contaminated with botulism toxin. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with the consumption of these products.
The recalled products were distributed nationwide in retail stores and through restaurant distributors. They include Sunrise Brand Marinated Silver/White Croaker, Sunrise Brand Marinated Climbing Perch, Sunrise Brand Marinated River Barb, Sunrise Brand Dehydrated Anchovy, and Sunrise Brand Dehydrated Big-Eye Herrings. You can see package sizes, product photos and barcodes of the recalled products at the FDA web site.
The FDA found that the products had either not been eviscerated or was under-eviscerated. The viscera in fish is where Clostridium botulinum bacteria can live. Do not eat these products even if they do not smell, look, or taste good. Botulism toxin is tasteless and odorless and does not affect the foods.
If you purchased these products, do not eat them. Discard in a sealed container or return to the place of purchase for a refund.
The symptoms of botulism food poisoning include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, trouble speaking and difficulty swallowing. This illness can be fatal. As it progresses, patients will have difficulty breathing and weakness of specific muscles. If you ate any of the recalled products and have experienced these symptoms, see a doctor immediately.
