Masstown Market in Nova Scotia, Canada, is recalling Masstown Market brand Smoked Kippers and Cold Smoked Salmon because they may permit the growth of Clostridium botulinum bacteria. This bacteria produces the botulism toxin, which can cause paralysis, serious illness, and even death. A tiny amount of the toxin can kill an adult. No illnesses have been reported in association with the consumption of these products.
Both products are the Masstown Market brand. The first recalled product is Smoked Kippers, in variable weight packages. The UPC number on that product starts with 0 208172, and the code on the product is 18.MR.30. Also recalled is Cold Smoked Salmon in variable weight packages. The UPC number for that product starts with 0 208035, and the codes on the product are 18.MR.27, 18.AL.07, and 18.AL.11.
Check to see if you have these recalled products in your home. Discard them in a sealed or double wrapped bag in a secure garbage can, or take them back to the store where you bought them for a full refund.
The symptoms of botulism poisoning are very distinctive. A tiny amount of the toxin can kill an adult. Early symptoms include loss of expression, facial paralysis, double vision or blurred vision, difficulty swallowing, drooping eyelids, and difficulty speaking or slurred speech. The paralysis progresses downward through the body in a parallel manner. Eventually, a person will not be able to breath because the lungs are paralyzed. There is treatment for botulism poisoning, but it must be administered in a hospital setting.
The recall was triggered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s activities. The investigation may lead to the recall of other products.
