The Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Recall has been issued after federal officials warned that the smoked fish product may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a dangerous bacterium capable of causing life-threatening illness or death.
According to the FDA, Shining Sea Fish Co. of Detroit, Michigan is recalling catch-weight packages of “Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring” because the fish were not properly eviscerated before processing. The affected fish are longer than five inches, increasing the risk that dangerous botulism spores may be concentrated inside the product.
Consumers are being warned:
Do not eat the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.
Why the Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Recall Was Issued
The Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Recall was issued after routine testing by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture found the fish had not been fully eviscerated before processing.
Uneviscerated fish over five inches in length can create dangerous conditions for the growth of Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria responsible for botulism. These spores are more likely to remain concentrated in the internal organs of the fish if not removed properly.
Botulism is considered one of the most serious foodborne illnesses because it attacks the nervous system and can become fatal if untreated.
Symptoms Linked to the Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Recall
Consumers who may have eaten recalled fish should monitor for symptoms including:
- General weakness
- Dizziness
- Double vision
- Difficulty speaking
- Trouble swallowing
- Muscle weakness
- Breathing difficulty
- Constipation
- Abdominal swelling
Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek emergency medical attention immediately because botulism can progress rapidly.
Products Included in the Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Recall
The recall includes:
Product Name
Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring
Product Type
Smoked fish / ready-to-eat herring
States Affected
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- North Dakota
Hazard
Potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum
Company
Shining Sea Fish Co.
The FDA stated the recalled products were distributed through retail grocery stores in the affected states.
What Consumers Should Do Immediately
Anyone who purchased products involved in the Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Recall should:
1) Do NOT eat the fish
Do not taste-test or cook the product.
2) Return or discard immediately
Consumers should safely dispose of the fish or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
3) Clean contaminated surfaces
Wash containers, utensils, countertops, and refrigerator shelves that may have touched the product.
4) Watch for symptoms
Anyone who consumed the recalled fish and feels ill should seek medical attention immediately.
5) Check refrigerators and freezers
Smoked fish products are sometimes frozen or stored for long periods.
Why the Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Recall Matters
The Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Recall is especially serious because botulism illnesses can become deadly even in small amounts.
Smoked and preserved fish products are often:
- stored for extended periods
- shared among family members
- consumed without reheating
- purchased from specialty grocery stores
That increases the possibility that recalled products may still be sitting unnoticed in refrigerators or freezers.
This recall is also a reminder that consumers should be especially cautious with refrigerated seafood and preserved fish products.
Company Contact Information
Consumers with questions regarding the Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Recall may contact:
Company: Shining Sea Fish Co.
Phone: 1-313-542-2637
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM EST
Final Thoughts
The Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Recall highlights the severe dangers associated with botulism contamination in improperly processed seafood products.
Consumers should immediately inspect refrigerators, freezers, and seafood purchases to ensure affected fish products are removed from the home.
Because botulism can quickly become life-threatening, acting fast is critical.
At Everyday Answers, we continue monitoring FDA food recalls and foodborne illness alerts to help consumers stay informed and protect their families.
For complete FDA recall details, affected product information, and official consumer guidance, review the official FDA recall announcement before consuming any Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring products.
For more FDA food safety alerts and recall coverage, explore our latest recall updates involving seafood, refrigerated foods, smoked products, and other potential foodborne illness risks.
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Refrigerator Safety Check
Take a quick look in your refrigerator or freezer today:
Do you currently store:
- smoked fish
- preserved seafood
- vacuum-sealed fish
- refrigerated ready-to-eat seafood
- imported fish products
How long do seafood products usually stay in your refrigerator before being eaten?
Your answer may encourage another family to check forgotten seafood products before a serious illness occurs.