Shellfish Safety Alert: Korean Oyster Recall Linked to Norovirus Cases in California

In the recent weeks, health officials have issued a warning to distributors and retailers concerning raw oysters from a Korean company that is believed to be linked to norovirus cases. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued this warning after reports indicated that oysters from JBR Inc., a company based in Tongyeongsi, South Korea, are likely connected to at least 33 confirmed and probable cases of norovirus in San Diego County in late March and April.

The oysters in question were shipped under the unique identifier “KR 15 SP” on the Interstate Certified Shellfish Shippers List and may also be labeled “Amazing Sea Brand.” Two California distributors, S.J. Distributors LLC in San Jose and Great Wall Seafood LA LLC in Irwindale, have issued recalls of the oysters. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries in the Republic of Korea has advised the company to voluntarily recall the distributed lots.

Restaurants and retailers who have potentially contaminated raw oysters are being urged to discard any leftover product. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause serious gastrointestinal illness, spreading person-to-person through contaminated surfaces and contaminated food. Symptoms of norovirus include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps, which can last for one to three days.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and proper handling procedures when dealing with shellfish products. Consumers should avoid purchasing raw oysters from uncertified sources or those that do not meet strict safety standards. It is also important for restaurants and retailers to properly store and handle shellfish products to prevent cross-contamination and other foodborne illnesses. For more information on shellfish advisories, individuals can visit the CDPH website.