FDA Recall: Haifa Smoked Fish Cold Smoked Sprats Linked to Botulism Risk
Haifa Smoked Fish Inc. has voluntarily recalled all lots of its refrigerated Cold Smoked Sprats after an FDA inspection revealed conditions that could allow the growth of Clostridium botulinum—the bacterium that produces the potentially deadly botulinum toxin. If you purchased these bulk sprats in New York, New Jersey or Pennsylvania, do not eat them. Return the product to the retailer for a full refund.
Haifa Smoked Fish Recall Facts
- Company: D&M Smoked Fish Inc. dba Haifa Smoked Fish Inc. (Queens, NY)
- Product: Cold Smoked Sprats (bulk cartons labeled “Cold Smoked Sprats,” no consumer UPC)
- Brand on label: Unbranded (No Brand)
- Affected lots: All lots, all pack dates
- States shipped: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
- Hazard: Possible growth of C. botulinum toxin (botulism)
- Illnesses reported: None as of 27 Oct 2026
- Recall announced: 27 Oct 2026 (FDA posting same day)
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Why Haifa Smoked Fish Issued the Recall
During a routine inspection, FDA investigators observed that Haifa Smoked Fish lacked the required HACCP controls to prevent C. botulinum growth in cold-smoked seafood. Because botulinum toxin can lead to paralysis, respiratory failure or death, the firm pulled every lot from commerce.
Symptoms of Botulism Poisoning
Botulism symptoms typically appear 6 hours to 2 days after eating contaminated food:
- General weakness or dizziness
- Double vision or drooping eyelids
- Slurred speech or difficulty swallowing
- Muscle weakness and trouble breathing
- Abdominal distention and constipation
Seek emergency medical care immediately if you develop any of these signs.
What Consumers Should Do
- Do not taste or consume the fish—even if it looks or smells normal.
- Return the product to the store for a refund.
- If returning is impossible, double-bag the sprats and discard them in the trash to prevent accidental consumption.
- Direct questions to Haifa Smoked Fish at 718-523-8899 (9 a.m.–5 p.m. EST).
Official Recall Image
Haifa Smoked Fish Sprats Recall: FAQ
Is every lot of Haifa Smoked Fish Cold Smoked Sprats recalled?
Yes. Haifa Smoked Fish recalled all production lots and pack dates of its Cold Smoked Sprats.
How were the sprats packaged for sale?
The sprats were sold loose in refrigerated, bulk cardboard cartons labeled “Cold Smoked Sprats.” No retail UPC code was printed.
Which stores carried the product?
The company distributed the fish to retail outlets in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Because no master store list was released, consumers should ask their local retailer if they received the affected sprats.
Can cooking make the sprats safe?
No. Botulinum toxin can survive typical home-cooking temperatures in oil-rich foods. Do not taste, cook or otherwise try to salvage the product.
Have any illnesses been linked to this recall?
No illnesses had been reported to the FDA at the time of the recall announcement on 27 Oct 2026.
What is the safest way to dispose of the fish if I can’t return it?
Place the sprats in a sealed, leak-proof bag, then discard them in a covered trash receptacle to prevent people or animals from accessing the fish.
Who can I contact for more information?
Call the company’s recall hotline at 718-523-8899 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.