Certain Manila clam products are being recalled by Evergreen International Foodstuffs Ltd. after Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) test results revealed the presence of a marine biotoxin known to cause paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP).
The clams in question were harvested on 16 September and processed the next day. The impacted products belong to Lot 21057 and have a harvest location of B.C. 17-20, according to CFIA.
“These Manila clams may also have been sold in bulk or in smaller packages with or without a label and may not bear the same brand, product name, or code,” the agency said.
Bivalve shellfish, such as oysters, clams, scallops, mussels, and cockles, and non-bivalve shellfish like whelks, are susceptible to paralytic shellfish toxin buildup. Such toxins are natural, but when they accumulate, they can lead to PSP.
Symptoms of PSP include tingling and numbness of the lips, tongue, hands and feet, and difficulty swallowing, with an onset ranging from a few minutes to 10 hours after consumption. Severe cases can result in difficulty walking, muscle paralysis, respiratory paralysis, and death.
CFIA is currently conducting an investigation into the matter, noting that so far, no illnesses related to the contaminated products have been reported.
“The CFIA is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products. If other high-risk products are recalled, the CFIA will notify the public through updated Food Recall Warnings,” it said. “The CFIA is verifying that industry is removing the recalled product from the marketplace.”
Photo courtesy of Evergreen International Foodstuffs via CFIA
