recalling Freshness Choice Brand Steam Mackerel because the product was found to be uneviscerated

Siam Trading Inc. and Gulf Coast Sea Trade Inc. Recall
Freshness Choice Brand Steam Mackerel

Arlington, VA – Siam Trading Inc. and Gulf Coast Sea Trade Inc. are recalling Freshness Choice Brand Steam Mackerel because the product was found to be uneviscerated prior to processing. It was discovered by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors during a routine inspection.

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 in swallowing and respiratory paralysis.

The recalled Freshness Choice Brand Steam Mackerel comes in an uncoded 8 ounce plastic bag and is a product of Vietnam. Freshness Choice Brand Steam Mackerel was sold nationwide.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. Consumers who have Freshness Choice Brand Steam Mackerel are advised not to eat it and return it to the place of purchase.

Retailers with questions for Siam Trading Inc. may contact the company at 718-381-7816.

Retailers with questions for Gulf Coast Sea Trade Inc. may contact the company at 626-329-0398.

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N.G.A. is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating a variety of formats. Most independent operators are serviced by wholesale distributors, while others may be partially or fully self-distributing. Some are publicly traded but with controlling shares held by the family and others are employee owned. Independents are the true “entrepreneurs” of the grocery industry and dedicated to their customers, associates, and communities. N.G.A. members include retail and wholesale grocers, state grocers associations, as well as manufacturers and service suppliers. For more information about N.G.A. and the independent sector of the industry, see the N.G.A. website: www.NationalGrocers.org.