Hepatitis A Outbreak Linked to La Serranita Concha Negra Shell Meat

United States

Update May 22nd, 2026:
The FDA has expanded its advisory regarding La Serranita-brand concha negra (black shell) fresh frozen shell meat from Ecuador. In addition to New Jersey and New York, the affected product was distributed to restaurants and retailers in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, and may have been further distributed.

The FDA is advising restaurants and retailers not to sell or serve the product and consumers not to eat it. Dealers in New York and New Jersey have recalled the affected shell meat. Health authorities have also reported hepatitis A cases associated with the outbreak in additional states, and investigations are ongoing.

The FDA continues to assist state and local health authorities and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Source: FDA


April 30th, 2026:
The FDA has issued a safety alert regarding La Serranita brand concha negra (black shell) fresh frozen shell meat from Ecuador, potentially contaminated with hepatitis A virus (HAV). The outbreak has affected individuals in New Jersey and New York, with several cases reported.

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is investigating the outbreak, which involves hepatitis A cases with onset dates from July 2025 to February 2026. The affected shell meat was distributed to restaurants and retailers in New Jersey and New York and may have been further distributed. A recall of the product has been initiated by dealers in these states.

The outbreak was discovered when the New York State Department of Health notified the FDA of the hepatitis A cases. The NYC Health Department, along with state health and environmental authorities, is actively investigating the situation. No new cases have been identified since February 2026. The FDA continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Source: www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/safety-alert-hepatitis-virus-concha-negra-black-shell-shell-meat-april-2026