Pacific oysters by Albion Fisheries and Union Bay Seafood are being recalled in Canada because they may contain a marine biotoxin called PSP, Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning. The oysters were distributed in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario at the retail level. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
The recalled oysters are Union Bay Seafood Ltd. Pacific oysters, Mica’s Petite Effingham Inlet, sold in 5 dozen count. The Location is BC 23-6, the Landfile number is 1403799, and the Lot number is 20190715NW. The harvest date for these oysters is July 14, 2019. Also recalled is Union Bay Seafood Ltd. Pacific oysters Effingham Inlet Xs in 5 dozen count. The Location marked on the package is BC 23-6, Landfile is 1403799, and the lot number is 20190715NW. The harvest date for those oysters is July 14, 2019. Finally, Intercity Packers Ltd. is recalling Oyster N/Shell Effingham XSM, also in 5 dozen count. The Harveta Location is BC 23-6, the Landfile is 1403799, and the P.O. number is 114994. The harvest date for those oysters is also July 14, 2019.
If you purchased these oysters, do not cook them. Unfortunately, this toxin is not destroyed or made inactive by cooking or freezing. Throw them away or take them back to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Paralytic shellfish toxin accumulates in the flesh of bivalve shellfish. Species that can be affected include mussels, cockles, oysters, clams, and scallops. Whelks can also accumulate these toxins.
The symptoms of Paralytic Shellfish Toxin poisoning include tingling and numbness of the tongue, lips, hands, and feet, and difficulty swallowing within a few minutes of consumption. In some situations, people can have difficulty walking and suffer muscle and respiratory paralysis. This illness can be deadly.
This recall was triggered by Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) test results. An investigation is being conducted, which may lead to the recall of other items.
