Ecola Seafoods Recalls All Canned Salmon and Tuna Products for Botulism Risk

Ecola Seafoods Inc. of Cannon Beach, OR, is voluntarily recalling all canned salmon and tuna with any code starting with “OC” because it has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death.  Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.

There have been no reported cases of illness associated with Ecola Seafoods products to date, the company stated.  All products were distributed to consumers in Oregon. The last date of distribution of recalled products was September 2015 (with an expiration date of September 2018).  Affected production codes include any codes starting with “OC.” The code can be found on either the bottom or on top of the can. Recalled products are packaged in metal cans with net weight 7.5 oz.

The Ecola Seafoods products were made by Skipanon Brand Seafoods LLC of Warrenton, OR, and this voluntary recall was initiated after Ecola Seafoods was notified that that its products were possibly under-processed. The problem was discovered during an inspection at Skipanon Brand Seafoods LLC by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Skipanon subsequently recalled all of its canned seafood products on Oct. 9.  Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled Ecola Seafoods canned salmon or tuna products are urged to return them to Ecola Seafoods for a full refund. Those with questions may call Cindy Beckman at (503) 436-9130 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. PST, Monday through Friday.  Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distention and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

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