KRASNIY OKTYABR INC. USA, based in Brooklyn, NY, has announced a recall of its "ARAL SILVER VOBLA" brand "ARAL" due to uneviscerated fish being found in the product. The affected fish were distributed across the United States through retail stores.
The product is packaged in a clear plastic vacuum-sealed bag with a blue label and contains two whole fish marked as "Product of Kazakhstan." The issue was identified following routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets food inspectors. Analysis by the NYS Food Laboratory confirmed that the fish had not been properly eviscerated before processing.
Selling uneviscerated fish is prohibited because clostridium botulinum spores tend to concentrate more in the viscera than other parts of the fish. Uneviscerated fish have been associated with botulism poisoning outbreaks. Symptoms of botulism can include dizziness, blurred or double vision, trouble speaking or swallowing, difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, abdominal distension, and constipation. Those experiencing these symptoms are advised to seek medical attention immediately.
There have been no reported illnesses linked to this issue so far. Consumers who purchased packages labeled 'DRY SALTED VOBLA ARAL SILVER' are encouraged to return them for a full refund at their place of purchase. For further inquiries, consumers may contact Krasniy Oktyabr Inc. USA at 718-858-6720.
