Uneviscerated Red Thread Fish Recalled Due to Botulism Risk

Arcadia Trading Inc. of Brooklyn, NY, is recalling all packages of Red Thread Fish because they are uneviscerated. The product comes in a 7-oz. heat-sealed plastic bag.

The recalled Red Thread Fish product was distributed nationwide in supermarkets. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.  The potential for contamination was noted by New York State Department of Agriculture inspectors during a routine inspection. Subsequent analysis of the product by Food Laboratory personnel confirmed that the fish was not properly eviscerated prior to processing.  The sale of uneviscerated processed 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 have been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning.  Symptoms of botulism poisoning include blurred or double vision, general weakness, poor reflexes, difficulty swallowing and respiratory paralysis.  No illness have been reported to date in connection with this problem.  Consumers who have purchased 7-oz. packages of Red Thread Fish are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 718-782-6888.