Perona Farms Food Specialties Recalls "Smoked Salmon" Because of Possible Health Risks

Contact:
Mark or Kirk Avondoglio
(973) 729-7878

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Andover, NJ -- January 7, 2005 -- Perona Farms is voluntarily recalling "Smoked Atlantic Salmon" and flavored varieties in 4 oz., 8 oz., 12 oz., 16 oz., and larger packages only of Lot #4328 because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria monocytogenes is an organism, which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The recalled "Smoked Salmon" in question is Lot #4328 with an expiration date of 1/29/05, 1/30/05, 1/31/05, 2/01/05, 2/02/05 or 2/03/05. Perona Farms is voluntarily recalling the lot that has been produced of the Salmon, including Moroccan, Scampi, Bacon, Ming-Tsai's, Gravelox, Czar and Pastrami Flavors as a precautionary measure.

This product is mainly retail, sold through stores of supermarket chains: Shop Rite, Price Chopper/Golub, Weis Markets, Earth Fare and Publix. Stores of these chains are located throughout the eastern United States. This product was also sold through various Beverage and Party Stores, as well as, Gourmet and Specialty Shops in the eastern United States. Consumers may have also purchased the products directly from the plant nationwide via phone or internet.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with this problem. The potential for contamination was noted after a random inspection by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Markets revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in a 4 oz. package of "Smoked Atlantic Salmon."

Consumers that have purchased any of the above products with Specific 4328 lot number are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Consumers with questions may contact Perona Farms at 800-750-6190.

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