Foppen Seafood is recalling smoked salmon sold at Kroger and Pay Less Market stores in 15 states after routine tests detected listeria in the product.

Details of the Recall

The recall involves Smoked Norwegian Salmon Slices—Toast-sized, 8.1-ounce packages identified by lot number 412 in the clear plastic window on the front of the package. The Harderwijk, Netherlands-based company announced this recall on Tuesday in a notice posted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The affected product was distributed in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.

Health Risks of Listeria

Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that can cause the infection of listeriosis. Mild symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, more severe symptoms can occur, such as headache, stiff neck, confusion, and convulsions. Listeriosis poses a higher risk to pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1,600 Americans contract listeriosis each year, with approximately 260 fatalities. Given the serious health risks associated with listeria, the recall is a critical precaution to protect consumers.

Company Response and Consumer Actions

Foppen Seafood emphasized its commitment to health, safety, and quality control in its statement: “At Foppen Seafood, we operate to the highest standards of health, safety, and quality control. We have taken immediate steps to address this isolated incident and we are collaborating closely with Kroger and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure a swift resolution.”

Consumers who purchased the recalled smoked salmon should discard it immediately or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or replacement. The company and retailers are working diligently to remove the contaminated products from the shelves and prevent further distribution. Foppen Seafood and the FDA have urged customers to remain vigilant and report any adverse reactions to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program. This step is crucial to ensure that any potential cases of listeriosis are identified and managed promptly.

Preventive Measures and Food Safety Tips

In light of this recall, consumers are reminded to always follow proper food safety practices. This includes thoroughly cooking seafood to the appropriate temperature, storing it at the correct refrigeration levels, and promptly discarding any items that appear spoiled or are past their expiration date. Regularly checking for recalls and staying informed about potential food safety issues can also help minimize health risks.