by New York, NY – A nationwide recall has been issued for select lots of Haifa Smoked Fish cold smoked salmon and cold smoked sea bass due to potential contamination with Listeria Monocytogenes, a dangerous bacteria that can cause severe illness, according to a statement released this week.
What Led to the Recall
The recall was initiated after routine testing and safety checks raised concerns about possible Listeria contamination in certain Haifa Smoked Fish products. The company has voluntarily pulled the affected items from shelves to protect consumers.
The FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) warns that while most healthy individuals may only experience mild flu-like symptoms, Listeria poses a serious risk to:
- Older adults
- Young children
- Pregnant women (where infection may cause miscarriage or stillbirth)
- Immunocompromised individuals
In these cases, infections can become life-threatening, spreading beyond the digestive system to the bloodstream and nervous system.
Which Products Are Affected
According to the company’s alert, the recall covers the following:
- Cold Smoked Salmon
- Package size: 8 ounces
- Lot number: 219
- Cold Smoked Sea Bass
- Package size: 8 ounces
- Lot number: 212
Both items were packaged in vacuum-sealed containers using paper board with flexible plastic. The products were distributed to retail stores and food distributors across the U.S., meaning customers nationwide may be impacted.
No Illnesses Reported — Yet
As of Tuesday, the company confirmed that there have been no reported cases of illness linked to the recalled fish. However, because Listeria infections can develop days to weeks after exposure, health officials are urging consumers to take the warning seriously and not consume the affected products.
Consumer Guidance
Haifa Smoked Fish is asking customers who purchased the recalled products to:
- Stop consuming the fish immediately
- Return it to the store where it was purchased for a full refund
- Dispose of any product if returning it is not possible
- Contact Haifa Smoked Fish at 718-523-8899 with questions
The company emphasized that food safety is its top priority and that it is working closely with the FDA to ensure all impacted products are removed from circulation.
A Larger Trend of Food Recalls
This recall adds to a growing number of food safety alerts in 2025. Recent recalls have been tied to contamination, foodborne illness risks, and undeclared allergens. Experts say such recalls highlight the importance of transparency in food production and consumer awareness.
According to the FDA, the nine major food allergens in the United States are: eggs, milk, fish, wheat, soybeans, crustacean shellfish, sesame, tree nuts, and peanuts.
Food recalls can disrupt supply chains and consumer confidence, but they also play a vital role in preventing illness.
The Health Risks of Listeria
Symptoms of a Listeria infection may include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis, septicemia, or pregnancy complications. The FDA urges anyone who experiences these symptoms after eating smoked fish to seek medical attention immediately.
What Happens Next
Haifa Smoked Fish has assured consumers that it is taking proactive steps to prevent future contamination. Federal regulators will continue to monitor the situation and may provide further updates if illnesses are reported.
Consumers can also stay informed by checking the FDA’s Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts database for the latest information on food safety issues.
What do you think about the rise in food recalls across the country? Have you ever purchased a recalled product before? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
