RIDOH: Sullivan Harbor Farm Recalls Cold Smoked Salmon

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) warns that Sullivan Harbor Farm of Hancock, ME is recalling ten lots of Cold Smoked Salmon which may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death.

Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled. No illnesses have been reported to date.

The smoked salmon products were sold and distributed by the company, owned by Mill Stream Corp., in several states, including Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. The products sold were through retail, wholesale and online orders.

The recalled product was sold between March 6, 2019 and Sept. 17, 2019 in vacuum sealed packages in the following sizes: whole salmon side, 2 lb., 1 lb., 8 oz., and 4 oz.  The affected product is marked with the following lot numbers marked on the back of the packages: 7049, 7050, 7051, 7052, 7054, 7056, 7058, 7060, 7062, 7066.

The FDA reports the recall was initiated because the product’s water phase salt (WPS) tested below 3.5%. This was discovered upon re-review of laboratory certificates, which were found to have incorrectly reported WPS levels. Labeling instructions state to keep the salmon refrigerated at or below 38ºF and that the product may be frozen.

Because the WPS is under 3.5% the product must remain frozen until ready to consume. Product stored in the refrigerator after thawing has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum.

Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

Consumers with questions should contact the company at 207-266-0621, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. EST.