US company recalling sliced herring fillets imported from Ukraine

New Jersey-based food company Zip International Group LLC is recalling a specific batch of its sliced herring fillet (also known as Forelka). The seafood is being recalled because of the possibility of infection by Listeria monocytogenes, a harmful bacterial contaminant, reports www.megafishnet.com.

The problem and subsequent recall was made after it was found during a routine sampling done by the State of New York's Agriculture Department and Market Food Inspectors, that the samples of herring fillet tested positive for the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium is a common food contaminant and is the cause of a type of food poisoning called Listeriosis. Listeriosis, in pregnant women, can cause stillbirths or miscarriages. In very young children or in elderly people, Listeriosis can become a more serious medical condition, which might even lead to death. Healthy persons suffering from Listeriosis might experience high fever, nausea, severe headache and vomiting.

The recalled herring fillet was sold in 600-gram and 330-gram plastic containers, with the container indicating the date code 03/06/2012 (best before date). The product was sold in different retail shops in the metropolitan area of New York. The recalled herring fillet, or Forelka, is a product imported from Ukraine.

To date, no illnesses or food poisoning incidents have been reported that are connected to the said recall. People who believe they might have bought the recalled herring fillet are advised to dispose of it or return it to the store where they bought it. Consumers with questions about the product, or about the product recall, may contact Zip International Group at 732-225-3600.