October 21, 2010 – Foremost Foods, International, Inc. of Pomona, CA, is issuing a voluntary recall on certain Tomi brand dried seafood products because they have 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. The products were manufactured by Kien Long Seafood Company Ltd. of Vietnam.
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.
These products were distributed in the States of California, Nevada, and Washington through Seafood City and Manila Seafood retail stores. This recall involves products sold between September 23, 2009 and October 20, 2010. The products are sold in a clear plastic package marked with the specific descriptions listed below:
00000070187 TOMI DRIED BABY SQUID 40 8 oz
79598107170 TOMI DRIED GOLDEN THREADFIN BEAM 40 8 OZ
79598107166 TOMI DRIED INDIAN MACKEREL 40 8 OZ
79598107164 TOMI DRIED TREVALLY 40 8 OZ
00000079922 TOMI DRIED SHRIMP FRY 40 4 OZ
79598107175 TOMI DRIED TUYO HERRING 40 4 OZ
893509680073 DRIED ANCHOVY (KIEN LONG) 40 3.5 OZ
79598107173 TOMI DRIED ROUND SCAD 40 8 OZ
79598107179 TOMI DRIED MULLET KAPAK 40 8 OZ
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the manufacturer of these products was not in compliance with U.S. FDA food manufacturing standards. There have been no illnesses reported to date.
Consumers who have purchased the above mentioned products are urged to return them to their place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (909) 525-9500 extension 138 (M-F 9:00AM to 5:00PM).
Source: FDA