The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified the recall of Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon as a Class I recall, its highest risk level, due to the detection of Listeria monocytogenes in the product.
This classification indicates that the contaminated salmon poses a serious threat to public health.
A Class I recalls means consuming or exposure to the recalled product could result in severe adverse health problems, or death.
The recall, initiated by Brooklyn-based Acme Smoked Fish Corporation on October 22, 2024, includes 12-ounce packages of Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon with lot number 8512801270 and a “Best By” date of November 13, 2024.
The product was distributed to retail stores and distribution centers in Florida.
Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous foodborne pathogen known to cause severe infections, particularly in vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress, with life-threatening complications such as meningitis and septicemia in extreme cases.
Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The recall was prompted after routine laboratory testing confirmed the presence of the bacteria in the product.
Acme Smoked Fish Corporation promptly notified consumers and distributors via press releases, emails, and other communication channels.
As contained in the initial press release, the product was distributed between October 9, 2024 to October 13, 2024 and was distributed to the Southeast Costco Distribution Center located in West Palm Beach, Florida and Costco Warehouse stores in Florida.
The Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon is vacuum packed in a black bordered plastic package, with a blue name of “Smoked Salmon” and an illustration of a salmon fish on the front.
Consumers are urged to avoid consuming the recalled product and to return it to the retailer for a full refund.
The FDA also encourages anyone who experiences symptoms after consuming the product to seek medical attention and report the incident through its MedWatch program.