If you've got a package of Starfish Seafood Premium cold-smoked Norwegian salmon in your freezer, you may want to take a closer look. Health officials have expanded a recall of this product after laboratory tests confirmed the presence of listeria, a bacterium that can cause serious illness, especially for pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
The recall, first issued on October 9, was widened after inspectors from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets found listeria in lot number D080-148 of the 8 oz vacuum-sealed packages. The distributor, Brooklyn-based Krasnyi Oktyabr, initially pulled its Starfish Seafood Smoked Trio batch, and now this latest detection has triggered a broader alert that reaches into Florida and beyond.
Which states are affected?
The recalled salmon was distributed across six states: Florida, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Georgia. If you live in any of these states and have purchased this product, it's worth checking the lot number and expiration date. The affected packages have an expiration date of November 27, 2027, and were imported from Latvia.
This is the second major seafood recall for Krasnyi Oktyabr in less than a month. The earlier recall involved the Starfish Seafood Smoked Trio, also due to microbiological irregularities. The company says it is cooperating with health authorities and has set up a customer service line at 718-858-6720, available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time.
Health risks and what to do
Listeria is no joke. According to the CDC, it causes about 1,250 infections and 172 deaths each year in the U.S. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, and gastrointestinal distress. For pregnant women, the infection can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth, and for newborns and the elderly, it can be life-threatening.
If you have the recalled salmon, the company advises returning it to the store for a full refund. Alternatively, you can throw it away in a way that prevents pets from getting into it. But don't just toss it in the trash without a second thought—food safety experts recommend thoroughly cleaning any freezer shelves or surfaces that came into contact with the packages, because listeria can survive and even multiply at refrigerator temperatures.
This recall is a reminder that even frozen foods can carry risks. While the FDA and state agencies continue to monitor the situation, it's a good moment to double-check your freezer for any of these packages. If you're unsure whether your salmon is part of the recall, look for the Starfish Seafood Premium label and the lot number D080-148.
For Florida residents, this news comes amid other recent safety concerns in the state, from alligator attacks to detention center mishaps. But this recall is specifically about food safety, and it's a good reminder to stay informed about what's in your kitchen.
As the investigation continues, health officials are urging consumers to stay vigilant. If you or a family member have consumed the recalled salmon and are experiencing symptoms like fever or muscle aches, contact your healthcare provider. And if you have questions about the recall, don't hesitate to call the company or your local health department.
In the meantime, it's a good idea to check your freezer, not just for this salmon but for any other recalled items. Food recalls happen more often than we think, and a quick check can keep your family safe. For more on food safety and other consumer alerts, keep an eye on our coverage.
