The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled frozen oysters from Tongyeong, South Korea, due to potential norovirus contamination.
Local media reported on March 11 that the FDA and the Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference (ISSC) issued warnings to restaurants and wholesalers, advising them against selling or handling Korean frozen oysters.
The recall applies to frozen half-shell oysters harvested on January 30 and February 4 last year in Tongyeong.
The action follows a report to the FDA on March 7 from California, where the oysters were initially distributed. According to the California Department of Public Health, a consumer who ate them experienced diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, fever, and body aches, suggesting a possible norovirus infection.
The FDA stated that they are investigating the possibility of the product being distributed to other regions and urged consumers to remain cautious.
Regarding the recall, the FDA stressed that restaurants and retailers should not offer or sell Korean frozen oysters and advised consumers to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms after eating oysters.
