SALTED UNEVISCERATED YELLOW CROAKER RECALLED BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK

HHS NEWS

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

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P99-2                          FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE          Print Media:         202-205-4144
January 21, 1999               
                               Consumer Inquiries:  888-INFO-FDA

SALTED UNEVISCERATED YELLOW CROAKER RECALLED
BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK

The Food and Drug Administration is announcing that Pacific Giant, Inc. of Los Angeles, CA is recalling the HANSUNG Salted Yellow Croaker fish, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.

Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

The salted, uneviscerated yellow croaker was distributed directly by the firm to 26 seafood distributors and supermarkets located in the following states: California, New York, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Arizona, Washington, Texas, and Illinois. According to the firm, approximately 624 cases of 30 lbs/case were distributed to the firm's customers during the last eighteen months.

The product, consisting of 5 to 6 whole yellow croaker fish placed on a white plastic tray, is vacuum packed in a multi-colored 16 oz. plastic package. The front and back of the package are labeled as "HANSUNG Salted Yellow Croaker" and the back of the package includes the statement "IMPORTED BY :PACIFIC GIANT, INC" and "Ingredients: Yellow Croaker, Salt ." The product is labeled in both Korean and English.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

Consumers who have purchased this product are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Pacific Giant at 213-689-4000.

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(Hypertext corrected by clb 1999-JAN-22)