# Major Recall Alert: Hellas Meze Golden Smoked Whole Herring Recalled Due to Clostridium Botulinum Risk
The FDA has announced an urgent recall involving Hellas Meze Golden Smoked Whole Herring, as the product poses a risk of contamination with **Clostridium botulinum**, a bacteria that can cause severe health consequences, including botulism poisoning. Distributed by Terra Medi LLC, this product has been pulled from stores across several states. Here’s everything you need to know about this critical food recall.
## Why This Recall is Important
The recall centers on Hellas Meze Golden Smoked Whole Herring, a refrigerated, smoked fish product that was found to be **improperly eviscerated**. Proper evisceration is essential for removing harmful bacteria spores from the viscera (internal organs) of fish, where pathogens like **Clostridium botulinum** are likely to thrive.
Clostridium botulinum can produce a dangerous toxin responsible for botulism, a rare but potentially fatal illness marked by:
- **Symptoms of Botulism Poisoning:**
- Dizziness
- Blurred or double vision
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
- Muscle weakness
- Constipation and abdominal distention
- Severe cases may result in respiratory failure.
### Why It Matters:
The sale of uneviscerated fish is explicitly prohibited under New York State Agriculture and Markets regulations because of the associated health hazards. This regulatory violation was uncovered after routine sampling and testing by the **New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.**
Fortunately, no illnesses have been linked to this product so far. However, if consumed, the consequences can be severe. Consumers are urged to act quickly and follow official guidelines for handling and disposing of the product.
## Details of the Recall
Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know about the recalled product:
- **Brand Name:** Hellas Meze
- **Product:** Golden Smoked Whole Herring
- **Distribution States:** MA, NJ, IL, and NY (distributed to retail stores and wholesale distributors).
- **Packaging Details:** Vacuum-sealed plastic packaging containing a single whole smoked herring.
- **Production Date:** 4/12/2025
- **Best Before Date:** 4/12/2026
- **Lot Code:** L120425F54
The product was found to violate safety regulations after testing conducted by New York State inspectors, highlighting the need for proactive consumer vigilance.
## What You Should Do
If you purchased Hellas Meze Golden Smoked Whole Herring, take the following steps immediately:
1. **Do Not Consume the Product** – Refrain from eating the fish to avoid the potential risk of illness.
2. **Return the Product** – Return the item to the place of purchase to receive a full refund.
3. **Contact the Company** – Consumers with questions or concerns can contact Terra Medi LLC at **718-932-9293**.
It’s of utmost importance to safeguard your health and that of your loved ones by following these precautionary measures.
## Stay Safe – Get Instant Recall Alerts
Food recalls like this one are crucial reminders of the importance of staying informed about consumer safety. Protect your family by downloading our **[Product Recall Alert App](#)** today! Get instant notifications on food recalls, safety alerts, and other critical updates directly to your device.
To learn more about this recall, visit the **[official FDA recall notice](https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/terra-medi-llc-recalls-karagounis-bros-hellas-meze-golden-smoked-whole-herring-due-improper)**.
Don’t take any chances when it comes to food safety—stay informed, stay vigilant, and act promptly.
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**Note:** This blog is based on the latest information as of the recall announcement on **October 2023.** Be sure to double-check expiration dates and lot numbers to confirm if the product in your possession is included in the recall. Stay safe!