Photo: FDA
An urgent warning has been issued for more than 111 cases of smoked salmon sold at Costco due to potential listeria contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified the recall as a Class I, indicating a "reasonable probability" of severe health effects or death if consumed. The affected product, branded as "Kirkland Signature," was sold in twin 12-ounce packs at Costco locations in southeastern Florida, with a sell-by date of November 13. Although the salmon is unlikely to be in refrigerators, officials fear it may still be in consumers' freezers.
The FDA first announced the recall in late October but recently updated its risk level. The salmon, manufactured by Acme Smoked Fish Corporation in Brooklyn, New York, has the lot number 8512801270 and UPC number 0 96619 25697 6. Consumers are urged to discard the product or return it for a full refund. No illnesses have been reported yet, but anyone who suspects illness from the salmon should report it.
The contamination may have occurred through machinery used during processing, as listeria can survive in water and spread during salmon processing. Smoked salmon is particularly vulnerable because the cold-smoking process does not kill listeria.
Listeria can cause severe infections, especially in newborns, elderly adults, and pregnant women. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In serious cases, it can lead to confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.