Two U.S. importers have recalled frozen half-shell oysters from South Korea due to possible contamination with norovirus.
Vernon, California, U.S.A.-based Wang Globalnet recalled 1,200 cases of frozen half-shell oysters labeled “Product of Korea, Pack 144 counts,” with a harvest date of 12 January. This came after the California Department of Public Health notified the company about multiple reported illnesses stemming from the product in the state of Utah, Wang Globalnet said.
The oysters, labeled “KR-15, SP,” were distributed in Utah, California, and other U.S. states. Customers who have purchased the product are “strongly urged” to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund, according to the importer.
Murray, Utah, U.S.A.-based Capital Trading also voluntarily recalled 1,200 cartons of oysters harvested from Designated Area No. 1. In Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea, with certification number KR-15-SP and lot number B250112.
The harvest date was 12 January and the best-by date on the packages is 12 January 2027.
Capital Trading similarly urged its customers to “immediately cease distribution and sale of any inventory associated," adding that they should also contact all customers who may have received this product and instruct them to stop serving the products, discard any open and unopened cartons, and notify Capital Trading of the disposition of the recalled product.
This incident is not the first time this year Korean oysters have been recalled due to norovirus concerns.
In March, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advised restaurants and food retailers not to serve or sell certain oysters from South Korea after a norovirus outbreak was reported in California.
The California Department of Public Health notified the FDA about “multiple illnesses” related to consumers eating Frozen Half Shell Oysters distributed by Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.-based seafood wholesaler Sea Win, which initiated a recall on 10 March.
