Dried fish from China that were sold in New York State are being recalled because of possible botulism contamination. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration today (2/26/08) issued this press release from the importer:
Summit Import Corp. 100 Summit Place, Jersey City, NJ 07305 is recalling all packages
of Sum Cheong Lung brand Dried Fish discovered by New York State Dept. of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors during a routine inspection and subsequent analysis of the product by Food Laboratory personnel confirming that the fish had not been eviscerated prior to processing.
This product may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause Botulism, a serious and potentially fatal food-borne illness.
The sale of this type of fish is prohibited under New York State Agriculture and Markets regulations because Clostridium botulinum spores are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish. Uneviscerated fish has been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning. Symptoms of botulism include blurred or double vision, general weakness, poor reflexes, difficulty swallowing and respiratory paralysis.
The recalled Sum Cheong Lung brand Dried Fish comes in an uncoded 12 oz. plastic bag and is a product of China. Dried Fish was sold in New York State.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. Consumers who have Sun Cheong Lung brand 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 201-839-2882.
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