North Fish USA Inc. has initiated a recall of one of its smoked fish products due to fears that it could contain Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium that causes Botulism. Here’s what to do if you have the fish and what to know about Botulism.

What is being recalled?

North Fish USA is recalling a single product over concerns that it may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum. The recalled product is the 9-ounce package of “Cold Smoked Capelin.”

According to the recall notice posted on the website of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the product comes in a plastic package and has the UPC code 4811527003360. Affected products have the best before date 07.13.2024 and 01.05.2025 stamped on the back of the packaging.

The issue with the recalled product is that the fish are over five inches in length and are uneviscerated. As the recall notice states, “The sale of uneviscerated fish over 5” in length may contain Clostridium botulinum spores as they are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish.”

What is Botulism?

Botulism is a serious illness, according to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Botulism is caused by a toxin that is found in Clostridium botulinum and related bacteria. Botulism attacks the nerves in the body, which can cause muscle paralysis and breathing difficulties. It can be fatal.

The CDC says the following are common symptoms of Botulism:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Muscle weakness
• Double vision
• Drooping eyelids
• Blurry vision
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty breathing
• Difficulty moving the eyes

In addition, foodborne Botulism can also cause diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, and nausea. In infants, symptoms may include drooping eyelids, weak crying, poor feeding, and more.

The FDA says that anyone experiencing Botulism symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

Has anyone become sick from the recall?

Thankfully, there have been no known reports of illness or death linked to the recall so far.

Where were the recalled products distributed?

According to the notice posted on the FDA’s website, the recalled products were distributed in the states of New York and Georgia. From there, they were distributed to retail stores on the East Coast.

What should I do if I have the recalled product?

Do not consume it even if it does not smell or look spoiled, the recall notice states. Instead, you should take the product back to its place of purchase for a full refund.

Those with questions about the recall can contact North Fish USA Inc. at (954) 251-2021 from Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. EST.