FDA Recall Alert: African Food on Wheels Oven Dried Fish Linked to Botulism Risk
African Food on Wheels Inc. is voluntarily recalling 28 boxes of Oven Dried Fish (Scomberomorus cavalla) sold at its Bronx, NY store because the product may allow the growth of Clostridium botulinum. Customers should stop using the fish immediately and return it for a full refund.
Key Recall Details for African Food on Wheels Oven Dried Fish
- Company: African Food on Wheels Inc., Bronx, NY
- Product: Oven Dried Fish (un-eviscerated, > 5 inches)
- Amount Recalled: 28 boxes
- Hazard: Potential Clostridium botulinum contamination (botulism)
- Distribution: Walk-in sales only, 1376 Randall Ave., Bronx, NY 10474
- Illnesses Reported: None as of the recall date
- Announcement Date: Nov 8 2023 (FDA posted Nov 8 2023)
Sources
Why Is African Food on Wheels Oven Dried Fish Being Recalled?
FDA inspectors found that the fish was not properly eviscerated. Un-eviscerated fish larger than five inches can create the low-oxygen environment in which Clostridium botulinum thrives, leading to potentially fatal botulism if consumed.
Health Risks of Clostridium botulinum
Botulism symptoms usually appear 6 hours to 2 weeks after ingestion and may include:
- General weakness, dizziness, or fatigue
- Blurred or double vision
- Difficulty speaking, swallowing, or breathing
- Abdominal distension and constipation
Seek emergency medical care if you develop these symptoms after eating the recalled fish.
How to Identify the Recalled Fish
The recalled fish was packed in plain brown corrugated boxes and sold only to walk-in customers. No UPCs or lot codes were used. If you bought oven-dried fish from African Food on Wheels in the Bronx, treat the product as recalled.
What Should Consumers Do?
- Do not eat the product—botulinum toxin cannot be reliably destroyed by normal cooking.
- Return the fish to African Food on Wheels Inc. for a full refund.
- If returning is not possible, dispose of the fish in sealed packaging to prevent accidental consumption.
- Contact the company with questions:
- Phone: 646-632-2911 (Mon–Fri, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. EST)
- Email: africanfoodonwheelsinc@gmail.com
Company Contact Information
African Food on Wheels Inc.
1376 Randall Avenue
Bronx, NY 10474
Phone: 646-632-2911
Email: africanfoodonwheelsinc@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is African Food on Wheels Oven Dried Fish being recalled?
The fish was sold un-eviscerated, creating conditions that can foster Clostridium botulinum growth and lead to botulism poisoning.
How can I tell if my African Food on Wheels Oven Dried Fish is part of the recall?
If you purchased plain-boxed oven-dried fish directly from the Bronx storefront, it is included in the recall. No lot codes were assigned.
Can I cook or freeze African Food on Wheels Oven Dried Fish to make it safe?
No. Botulinum toxin is not reliably destroyed by common cooking or freezing methods. Do not consume the product.
Are other products from African Food on Wheels affected by the recall?
No. The recall applies only to Oven Dried Fish (Scomberomorus cavalla) packed in plain brown boxes.
How do I dispose of African Food on Wheels Oven Dried Fish safely?
Seal the fish in a leak-proof bag, place it in a covered trash receptacle, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do if I already ate African Food on Wheels Oven Dried Fish?
If you experience symptoms such as dizziness, double vision, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention and mention possible botulism exposure.