The FDA is warning the public not to consume Haifa Cold Smoked Sprats because of the risk of botulism. During an inspection, the FDA found that the product was produced without food safety controls to prevent the growth of Clostridium botulinum and toxin formation. The agency recommended a recall, but the firm has declined. The notice did not state whether or not any illnesses have been reported. The firm is D&M Smoked Fish doing business as Haifa Smoked Fish of Jamacia, New York.
Food contaminated with botulism toxin will look, taste, or smell normal and the texture is not affected, but it can make you very sick.
All lots are included in this warning. The product is sold in bulk cardboard boxes and is shipped refrigerated. It may be frozen up to one year. The fish may have been sold at restaurants and grocery stores without a label. It was sold to restaurants, retailers, wholesalers, and food service customers in the states of Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. It may have been distributed in other states.
Sprats are small, oily fish that are a little like sardines. If you aren’t sure whether or not you purchased this smoked fish, ask your retailer. If he isn’t sure, do not eat it.
The symptoms of botulism poisoning include nausea, vomiting, fatigue or weakness, blurred or double vision, difficulty speaking or change in voice, difficulty swallowing, descending paralysis starting with the face, respiratory distress, dry mouth, and constipation. In severe cases, people will die without intensive care. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
If you purchased this fish, do not eat, sell, or serve it to others. It has a long shelf life. You can discard the fish or take it back to the store where you bought it, or contact your distributor for a refund.
If you ate this fish, monitor your health or the symptoms of botulism food poisoning. If you do get sick, go to an emergency room immediately because this is a medical emergency.
