Sushi Shrimp Recalled for Risk of Vibrio Infection
Sushi Shrimp Recalled for Risk of Vibrio Infection
A food safety recall was issued for tail-on butterfly shrimp sold at sushi bars in supermarkets across 40 states including California due to a risk of bacterial contamination. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the AFC Distribution Corp. recalled the products, also known as Sushi Ebi, because it may be contaminated with the bacteria Vibrio parahaemolyticus. No illnesses have been reported so far.
The recalled shrimp was used in various prepared menu offerings with sell-by dates ranging from Feb. 19-March 13. AFC is the nation’s largest franchiser of supermarket-based sushi bars and has over 3,300 sushi bars in stores throughout the United States. The recalled shrimp was distributed to retail AFC sushi counters where it is further processed into prepared sushi items at grocery stores, cafeterias and corporate dining centers. For more information, contact 866-467-8744 or email the company at recall@afcsushi.com.
Understanding the Effects of Vibriosis
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that vibriosis causes 80,000 illnesses each year nationwide. About 52,000 of these illnesses are said to be the result of eating contaminated food. Vibrio parahaemolyticus, the bacterium involved in this sushi recall, is the most commonly reported species and is estimated to cause 45,000 illnesses each year in the United States.
Most people become infected with this bacterium when they eat raw or undercooked shellfish. Certain vibrio species can also cause a skin infection when an open wound is exposed to brackish or saltwater. Common symptoms of an infection include diarrhea, nausea, fever and chills. People with compromised immune systems, especially those with chronic liver disease, are more likely to get vibriosis.
If You Have Been Affected
If you have suffered food poisoning or are suffering symptoms of a food-borne illness, it is important that you get medical attention right away. If you have any of the suspect food left, isolate it and preserve it so it can be examined in a laboratory for the presence of pathogens. Save receipts for food purchases. Report your illness to the local healthcare agency, which typically tracks illnesses and outbreaks.
It would also be in your best interest to contact an experienced California food poisoning lawyer who will be able to help you seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
