Herring in Vegetable Oil FillingRoyal Sweet Bakery announced a voluntary recall for its ‘Herring in Vegetable Oil Filling’ product because it has been found to contain uneviscerated fish.

Because of un-evisceration, the affected product has a high possibility of bacterial contamination, specifically by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. This problem was discovered after the Department of Agriculture in New York did a routine inspection of the processed fish product. Laboratory analysts confirmed that the fish had not been properly eviscerated before it was processed.

The recalled products are packed in plastic tubs with a net weight of 49.38 ounces. Date codes indicated on the packaging is 06/04/2011 and 09/06/2011. This processed food product is imported from Russia.

New York’s DA, as well as Market Regulations, strictly prohibits the sale of uneviscerated fish. This is because un-eviscerated products contain a high amount of Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause the serious infection botulism. Botulism is a type of food poisoning that causes general muscle weakness, difficulty in swallowing, double vision, poor reflexes and respiratory paralysis. In worst cases, botulism can cause death in people with weakened immune systems.

The recalled product was distributed to retail stores all around the country. As of the date of the recall, no health incidences had been reported in connection with the product recall.

Customers who were able to purchase the affected product are urged to return it to the store for a full refund. They may also call the company with any questions and concerns that they may have. The company can be reached at 718-567-7770.