JFC International Inc. in Brooklyn, NY is recalling frozen capelin fish because it was not properly eviscerated prior to processing. The problem was discovered by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors during a routine inspection and subsequent lab analysis, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Tuesday.
The product may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause botulism, the FDA said in a news release.
The sale of un-eviscerated 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. Un-eviscerated fish has been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning.
The recalled fish, imported from Vietnam, was sold nationwide in plastic-wrapped Styrofoam trays with the following codes: 7L8P, 7L5P, 6L10P, 6L8P, 6L5P, 5L10P, 5L8P.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
Consumers who have the frozen capelin are advised not to eat it and should return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 800-633-1004.