Fish sold in multiple states has been recalled over fears it could contain paralyzing bacteria. 

P. East Trading Corp Distributors is issuing a recall for herring that was delivered to general stores in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

The company, based in Bronx, New York, sent out the product in 18lb wooden boxes marked with the container code ‘Lot 1 PRC5073’.

The decision to recall the product was made when inspectors discovered that the herring exceeded 5 inches in length and had not been eviscerated, meaning their internal organs were still intact.

This heightens the risk of the meat carrying bacteria that causes botulism, a rare food-borne pathogen that attacks the body’s nerves.

It is more commonly found in internal organs, especially the intestines, of fish. 

Botulism can lead to full-body paralysis, including in muscles needed to breathe, making it fatal in rare cases. 

Consumers are warned not to consume the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled. 

Fish sold in multiple states has been recalled over fears it could contain paralyzing bacteria

No illnesses have been reported in relation to the recall.  

The FDA advises customers experiencing symptoms like muscle weakness, dizziness, slurred speech, abdominal swelling, constipation, breathing problems, or paralysis to promptly seek medical help.

The authorities note that the fish product – manufactured by Sea Star Seafood Ltd. – might be difficult to spot, as it was likely repackaged at the retail locations it was distributed to. 

Retail packaging and coding will vary based on location of purchase but the FDA has released a full list of the stores it was sent to, which totals more than 75. 

No major retailers are included in the list, which is mainly made up of independent stores.  

Symptoms of foodborne botulism usually appear within 12 to 36 hours of consuming contaminated food, but the range can be from a few hours to several days. 

Botulism is caused by a toxin released by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which is normally found in spores in soil, marine areas, and on the surface of foods like fruits, vegetables, and seafood. 

Fermented foods like wine and low-acid foods such as most vegetables, meats, and fish, are the most likely culprits. 

The bacteria make spores, which act like protective coatings and are usually harmless. 

However, warm and wet tight spaces lacking oxygen – such as metal cans or plastic jars – can cause the bacteria to release toxins that attack the central nervous system.

Botulism targets the body’s nerves and can lead to paralysis, including in the muscles needed to breathe.

This makes five to 10 percent of cases fatal. 

Other symptoms include difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, double vision, drooping eyelids, blurry vision, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, and trouble moving the eyes.

The CDC estimates there are just 200 cases of botulism in the US every year, and 25 are from food, making it rare. 

Other causes include infections and, rarely, injecting too much botulinum toxin used in Botox. 

Consumers are urged to contact P. East Trading Corp to learn how to dispose of affected products and determine steps like being reimbursed.