The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a notice concerning a batch of oysters, recalled after routine checks raised concerns during distribution to 10 U.S. states. While full details are still emerging, the situation involves frozen products sourced from overseas.
USA Today reported that the case is under active investigation, with federal agencies working alongside state officials to trace distribution.
The announcement has drawn attention due to the potential involvement of norovirus, a common cause of gastrointestinal illness, but authorities have not disclosed further findings. The recall serves as a precaution while more information is gathered.
Oysters From South Korea Flagged for Contamination
On May 22, the FDA reported that Khee Trading, Inc., based in Compton, Southern California, has voluntarily recalled a batch of frozen, raw, and half-shell oysters imported from South Korea.
These oysters, identified by lot code B250130, may be contaminated with norovirus and were distributed to food retailers and restaurants in Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Nevada, Texas, Utah, and Washington.
These products were intended for food service and retail distribution and could appear completely normal despite the contamination. The FDA cautioned that contaminated oysters may look, smell, and taste normal, making detection by consumers nearly impossible.
No Illnesses Reported but Precautions Urged
As of the announcement, no illnesses have been associated with the recalled oysters. The agency stated:
The FDA is awaiting further information on distribution of the frozen, raw, half-shell oysters and will continue to monitor the investigation and provide assistance to state authorities as needed – the federal agency said.
The FDA advises consumers, restaurants, and food retailers to cease sale and consumption of the affected product immediately. The presence of norovirus in seafood typically indicates contamination from human waste during harvesting or handling.
What Is Norovirus and How Does It Spread?
Norovirus, also known as “stomach flu”, is a leading cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal illness in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is responsible for 58% of foodborne illnesses.
Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. The FDA explains:
A person usually develops symptoms 12 to 48 hours after being exposed to norovirus. Most people with norovirus illness get better within 1 to 3 days – the FDA said.
The virus spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or close contact with an infected person.
What Consumers Should Do
Anyone who has purchased the affected oysters should not consume them. If already eaten, and symptoms develop, individuals should contact their healthcare provider to report their symptoms and receive care.
Norovirus symptoms, while often short-lived, can be more severe in vulnerable populations such as young children, elderly adults, or immunocompromised individuals.
Those impacted by this recall or other food safety issues may report a complaint or adverse event by visiting the FDA’s Industry and Consumer Assistance portal.
