More than 560 pounds of smoked fish sold in three US states have been recalled over the risk of botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, after an inspection found the producer was operating without required food safety controls.
Haifa Smoked Fish of Queens, New York, recalled its Cold Smoked Sprats, which were distributed through shops in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, the US Food and Drug Administration announced this week.
Missing safety controls
The recall was launched after an FDA inspection found the firm was producing cold-smoked sprats without the controls needed to prevent the growth of Clostridium botulinum and the formation of its toxin. Botulism can cause general weakness, dizziness, double vision, trouble speaking or swallowing, difficulty breathing, abdominal swelling and constipation, and can be fatal.
Consumers who bought the product should return it to the place of purchase for a refund and should not eat it, even if it does not look or smell spoiled, the FDA said. No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall. Consumers with questions can contact the company on 718-523-8899 during standard business hours.
Butter recall given risk classification
The fish recall is one of three food recalls in the headlines this week. The FDA has classified the recall of Miyoko’s Creamery European Style Salted Plant Milk Butter as a Class II risk, meaning use of the product may cause temporary or medically reversible health consequences, or that the probability of serious harm is remote.
The voluntary recall, begun on 11 September by Prosperity Organic Foods of Boise, Idaho, covers 1,304 cases of the plant-based butter sold in ten states, including Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey and Wisconsin, over concerns about yeast, mould and E. coli. The eight-ounce packages carry the code UPC 857554005773, lot number 1007871 and a best-by date of 5 November 2026.
Salad kit recalled over allergens
Taylor Farms has also recalled its H-E-B Backyard BBQ Chop Salad Kit, sold in Texas, because it may contain undeclared soy and tree nuts, specifically almonds. People with an allergy or sensitivity to soy or almonds could face a serious or life-threatening reaction, the FDA said. The 13.4-ounce salad kits carry UPC 041220300457 and a best-by date of 30 October 2026. No illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported, and customers are asked to throw the salad away or return it for a refund.
FAKTA
- Haifa Smoked Fish recalled more than 560 pounds of Cold Smoked Sprats sold in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania over botulism risk.
- An FDA inspection found the firm lacked required controls to prevent Clostridium botulinum growth and toxin formation.
- No illnesses have been reported; consumers should return the fish for a refund and not eat it even if it looks and smells fine.
- Miyoko’s Creamery plant-based butter recall was classified Class II, covering 1,304 cases in ten states over yeast, mould and E. coli concerns.
- Taylor Farms recalled H-E-B Backyard BBQ Chop Salad in Texas over undeclared soy and almonds; no reactions reported.
Conclusion
The three recalls are a reminder to check fridges and package labels: the fish poses a serious poisoning risk, the butter a contamination risk, and the salad a hidden allergen risk. In each case the advice is the same — do not eat a recalled product, and return it to the shop.
