A Brooklyn import-export company is recalling an undisclosed amount of dried yellow fish after a sample tested positive for the bacterium that causes botulism poisoning.
The fish is a product of China, but was sold in New York City retail stores in unlabeled bulk boxes that do not have any identifying marks or traceability codes, according to the recall notice on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website.
“Consumers who have purchased dried fish are advised not to eat it, but should return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 718-567-3339,” the recall notice states.
The Clostridium botulinum contamination was found in the dried yellow fish distributed by WD Import and Export Inc. in Brooklyn when staff from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspection program collected a random sample for testing.
“Subsequent analysis of the product by Food Laboratory personnel confirmed that the fish was not properly eviscerated prior to processing,” according to the recall notice.
Clostridium botulinum can cause botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning. Symptoms include general weakness, dizziness, blurred or double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distention and constipation are also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
