Haifa Smoked Fish recalls about 560 lbs of cold smoked sprats over botulism risk
This is an editorial summary of research originally reported by USDA FSIS - Food Safety Alerts. ProductSafer does not claim ownership of the underlying research. All intellectual property belongs to the original publishers.
HAIFA SMOKED FISH of Queens, NY is recalling about 560 lbs of cold smoked sprats due to potential Clostridium botulinum contamination, a bacterium that can cause life-threatening illness. Sold loose in bulk boxes in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania; no illnesses reported to date. Do not use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled; return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
What happened
HAIFA SMOKED FISH of Queens, NY, recalls about 560 lbs. of Cold Smoked Sprats due to potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can cause life-threatening illness. The FDA announced the recall on October 27, 2026. An FDA inspection found the firm produced cold-smoked sprats without required food safety controls to prevent Clostridium botulinum growth and toxin formation.
Affected products
- Cold Smoked Sprat Fish, sold loose in bulk cardboard boxes labeled Cold Smoked Sprats, shipped refrigerated
- Company: D&M Smoked Fish Inc. dba Haifa Smoked Fish Inc. (no brand)
- Distributed in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania through retail stores
- All lots are included in the recall
The risk
Clostridium botulinum can cause botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning. Symptoms include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, and trouble speaking or swallowing. Difficulty breathing, weakness in other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also occur. No illnesses have been reported to date.
What to do
Do not use the product, even if it does not look or smell spoiled. Consumers who bought it are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Questions: call 718-523-8899, 9am to 5pm Eastern Standard Time. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
What you can doAI-generated
- ✓Toss every package of Haifa Smoked Fish cold smoked sprats you have. Don't taste them first.
- ✓Return the bulk box to the store where you bought it for a full refund.
- ✓Head to an emergency room fast if you notice double vision, trouble speaking, or trouble swallowing.
- ✓Call 718-523-8899 between 9am and 5pm Eastern with questions about your lot.
Always consult a healthcare professional for personal medical advice.
Read the full report at the original source
USDA FSIS - Food Safety AlertsWas this finding useful?
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