Haifa Smoked Fish Issues Nationwide Recall for Smoked Salmon and Seabass Due to Listeria Risk

Haifa Smoked Fish is voluntarily recalling its “Cold Smoked Salmon” and “Cold Smoked Seabass” products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, according to an announcement posted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The recall impacts an 8-ounce package of “Cold Smoked Salmon” with lot number 219 and an 8-ounce package of “Cold Smoked Seabass” with lot number 212. These products were distributed across the United States directly to retail stores and distributors.

Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. While healthy individuals may experience short-term symptoms such as fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, the bacteria pose significant risks to pregnant women, potentially leading to miscarriages and stillbirths. No illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall to date.

The presence of Listeria monocytogenes was identified through sampling conducted by food inspectors from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Subsequent laboratory analysis confirmed the contamination in the affected “Cold Smoked Salmon” and “Cold Smoked Seabass” products. The products are characterized by vacuum packaging on a paperboard with a flexible plastic outer layer.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled Haifa “Cold Smoked Salmon” or “Cold Smoked Seabass” are strongly advised to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. For any questions or further information regarding this recall, consumers can contact Haifa Smoked Fish directly at 718-523-8899. The FDA has published this company announcement as a public service and does not endorse the recalled products or the company.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

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