The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a nationwide recall of a seafood product due to potential health risks. The recall involves “Dry Ghoinnya Fish” produced by New Hoque & Sons Inc. in Maspeth, NY, which was found to have been sold with its internal organs still intact. This failure to properly process the fish poses a serious risk of botulism, a potentially fatal illness.
Health officials from the FDA and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets discovered the issue during routine inspections. The fish was found to be uneviscerated, meaning that the internal organs had not been removed. According to the FDA, this oversight is a violation of state regulations, which prohibit the sale of uneviscerated fish due to the higher concentration of Clostridium botulinum spores in the viscera.
Details of the Recall
The recalled “Dry Ghoinnya Fish” is packaged in clear plastic bags weighing between 10 to 12 pounds, with an expiration date of May 19, 2025, stamped on the bottom. The product UPC is 908172635412. Consumers across the country are urged to check their pantries for this product and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Despite the serious nature of this recall, as of now, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the uneviscerated fish. However, health officials emphasize the importance of acting quickly if symptoms of botulism appear. These symptoms can include dizziness, blurred or double vision, and difficulty speaking or swallowing. More severe reactions may involve muscle weakness, abdominal distension, and breathing difficulties.
Consumer Guidance and Precautions
Officials strongly advise anyone who has purchased the “Dry Ghoinnya Fish” to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of the aforementioned symptoms. The FDA has stated, “Consumers who have purchased the ‘Dry Ghoinnya Fish’ are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.”
For further inquiries, affected consumers can contact New Hoque & Sons Inc. at (718) 391-0992. With the recall now in effect, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and vigilant regarding their seafood purchases to ensure their health and safety.
