Haifa Smoked Fish is recalling all lots of its cold-smoked sprats because they may pose a risk of botulism. The recalled fish was distributed in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

The Queens company, formally D&M Smoked Fish Inc., doing business as Haifa Smoked Fish Inc., initiated the recall on October 27. It covers approximately 560 pounds of cold-smoked sprats, not every product sold by the company. No illnesses had been reported as of the recall announcement.

What shoppers should check

The sprats were shipped refrigerated in bulk cardboard boxes and may have been sold loose or without a label at seafood counters or restaurants. All lots of the recalled product are included. The fish may have been frozen for up to a year, so consumers should also check their freezers.

Do not eat the recalled fish, even if it looks or smells normal. If you are unsure whether your cold-smoked sprats came from Haifa, contact the place of purchase or throw them away. The company says customers can return recalled product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

FDA advises consumers and businesses to clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that touched the recalled fish. Retailers, restaurants and food-service operators should not sell or serve it.

Why the recall was issued

FDA said an inspection found that the company was producing cold-smoked sprats without required controls to prevent growth of Clostridium botulinum and toxin formation. The agency first warned consumers on October 23, when the company had declined a recall. FDA updated its alert after the recall began on October 27.

Botulism can be life-threatening. Symptoms can include weakness, double or blurred vision, trouble speaking or swallowing, and difficulty breathing. Anyone with symptoms should seek immediate medical care. FDA describes botulism as a medical emergency.

Consumers with questions can contact the company at 718-523-8899, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time. Read the FDA’s current safety alert and product images and the company’s recall announcement for the latest details.