US FDA Warns About Contaminated Maine Oysters
Summary
The U.S. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning to restaurants, food retailers, and consumers regarding recalled oysters from Recompense Cove in Freeport, Maine, due to possible contamination with Campylobacter bacteria. This contamination has been linked to an illness outbreak in Maine.
Details of the Warning The FDA advises against serving, selling, or consuming these oysters. The agency is working with Maine and other states to monitor the situation and support ongoing investigations. The contaminated oysters should be properly disposed of by consumers, retailers, and restaurants.
Harvest and Distribution Information The oysters in question were harvested between June 19, 2024, and July 16, 2024, from harvest sites CAS RC2 and CAS RCX. They were distributed to various U.S.
states, including California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont, as well as Ontario, Canada. There is also a possibility that these oysters reached other states.
Response to the Outbreak
On July 11, 2024, the Maine Department of Marine Resources (ME DMR) alerted the FDA about the Campylobacter illness outbreak linked to these oysters. Consequently, the ME DMR closed the affected harvest areas and recalled the oysters.
Health Risks
Campylobacter bacteria can cause severe illness, particularly when the contaminated oysters are consumed raw. This can lead to potentially life-threatening conditions in individuals with compromised immune systems.
Preventive Measures
The FDA recommends that restaurants and retailers discard the recalled oysters by either throwing them away or returning them to the distributor for destruction. They should also be vigilant about
cross-contamination of cutting surfaces and utensils. Retailers selling bulk oysters should ensure that all containers used are thoroughly cleaned and sanitised.
Conclusion
The FDA's prompt action and the ongoing collaboration with state authorities aim to prevent further illnesses. Consumers are urged to stay informed and exercise caution regarding the recalled oysters to safeguard public health.