By: Richard L. Smith
Consumers in New Jersey are being advised to check their pantries after a dried fish product commonly sold in Asian grocery stores was voluntarily recalled due to food safety concerns.
According to a statement released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Prime Food Processing LLC has issued a voluntary recall of its Dried Croaker Fish after it was determined the product was not adequately eviscerated, a requirement set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Officials say fish that are not properly eviscerated may retain internal organs that can harbor harmful bacteria or toxins, potentially posing a health risk if consumed.
The recall involves Item #AF1410, Dried Croaker Fish, with an expiration date of December 28, 2027.
The product is packaged in clear wrapping with green trim.
The affected fish was distributed to Asian grocery stores in several states, including New Jersey, as well as Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Maryland, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
The issue was discovered during routine regulatory testing conducted by the New York Department of Agriculture.
Further investigation determined the problem originated from an imported product manufactured in Vietnam.
Officials noted that no illnesses or adverse reactions connected to the recalled product have been reported at this time.
Consumers who may have purchased the affected product are urged not to consume it and to follow guidance provided by retailers or the manufacturer regarding proper disposal or returns.