Seaview Fisheries Oysters from Connecticut - Warning to not consume due to potential contamination

United States

The FDA is advising consumers not to eat, and restaurants and food retailers not to sell, and to dispose of oysters illegally harvested from Milford Approved area in Connecticut on 11/12/2023 and 11/15/2023 by original certified dealer Seaview Fisheries, CT-084-SS, AQ because they may be contaminated. The oysters were directly distributed to a distributor in RI. Oysters were distributed further to a distributor and retailers in DE, FL, IL, MD, NJ, NY, PA, and TX and may have been distributed further from these states.

The affected products are Oysters illegally harvested from Milford Approved area in Connecticut on 11/12/2023 and 11/15/2023 and can be identified by the dealer tag with the original shipper, Seaview Fisheries LLC, CT-084-SS, AQ, and harvest location lots L466B and 466A.

Illegally harvested oysters may be contaminated with harmful pathogens, toxic elements, or poisonous substances that can cause illness if consumed. While oysters can absorb and accumulate contaminants from their surrounding waters, these harmful substances are undetectable to the average consumer via taste, smell, or appearance. Especially at risk are individuals with compromised immune systems.

Symptoms of food poisoning from consuming contaminated oysters include diarrhea, stomach pain or cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Onset times and durations can vary greatly.

On November 17, 2023, the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Aquaculture was made aware of the illegally harvested and potentially contaminated oysters and promptly informed the FDA. The FDA is now actively monitoring the situation and providing aid to the necessary state authorities.

Consumers are urged not to consume the affected oysters. Restaurants and retailers are being advised not to serve or sell the identified oysters and to prioritize proper disposal. Restoration and prevention efforts should include thorough cleansing and sanitation of all food processing equipment, surfaces, and environments.

In case you experience vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea, report it now. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.

Source: www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/fda-advises-restaurants-and-retailers-not-serve-or-sell-and-consumers-not-eat-oysters-illegally