Nearly 333 pounds of Buckhead tuna have been recalled after testing found elevated levels of scombrotoxin, which can cause food poisoning, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Buckhead Meat Company, doing business as Trinity Seafood, initiated the recall July 24 after the New Jersey Department of Health notified the company that two tuna samples had elevated levels of scombrotoxin. The FDA classified the recall as Class II on Sept. 16.
The recalled tuna was distributed in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, according to the FDA enforcement information.
The recall covers 332.9 pounds of Buckhead tuna sold in refrigerated Styrofoam containers. The tuna was packaged in 3- to 5-pound, 10-pound, 12-pound and 15-pound cases.
The affected product is identified by product code 0004255. The FDA lists vat numbers 59-01915, 58-11212, 59-01914, 58-11210, 58-11213, 59-01930 and 59-01570 among the codes associated with the recall.
The FDA defines a Class II recall as one in which exposure to a product may cause temporary or medically reversible health problems, but the probability of serious health consequences is considered remote.
What is scombrotoxin poisoning?
Scombrotoxin poisoning, also known as scombroid poisoning, can occur when certain types of fish begin to spoil and bacteria cause elevated levels of histamine to develop. Tuna and mackerel are among the fish most commonly associated with the illness, according to the FDA.
Improper storage or refrigeration can allow histamine to form in fish. Once it develops, the toxin is not destroyed by freezing, cooking, smoking, curing or canning, the FDA says.
Symptoms can develop soon after eating contaminated fish and can resemble an allergic reaction. They may include flushing, rash or hives, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and heart palpitations. More serious cases can involve respiratory problems.
People who believe they became sick after eating fish should contact a health care provider. The FDA also accepts reports of suspected seafood-related toxin illnesses.