H.C. Foods Co. of Commerce, CA is recalling frozen dried mackerel and dried round scad after U.S. Food and Drug Administration personnel found that the fish imported from the Philippines was not properly eviscerated prior to processing.

The dried fish may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause botulism, a serious and potentially fatal foodborne illness.

No illnesses have been reported. 

The sale of improperly eviscerated fish, 5 inches in length or greater, is prohibited 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 which may pose a potentially life-threatening health hazard. 

Symptoms of botulism include blurred or double vision, general weakness, poor reflexes, difficulty swallowing and respiratory paralysis which may lead to death. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

The following recalled products were sold to wholesale distributors and retail stores nationwide:

– Dried Mackerel (Hasa Hasa) packed in 8 oz. plastic bags under the Pacific Isles Brand. Lot# 3298 and Lot# 0760

– Dried Round Scad (Galunggong) packed in 8 oz. plastic bags under the Pacific Isles Brand. Lot# 3228 and Lot# 3168.

Consumers who have the recalled fish are advised not to eat it, but may return it to the place of purchase. 

For more information contact the company at 323-722-8648, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.  to 5 p.m. (PST).