A brand of anchovy fillets is being recalled in multiple provinces due to elevated histamine levels.
Quebec company Cucina Fine Foods is recalling Vicente Marino branded anchovy fillets following reports of adverse reactions after consumption of the product, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) said in a July 3 recall notice.
The anchovy fillets were distributed in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and “possibly other provinces and territories,” according to the recall.
The fillets were sold packed in olive oil in 80-gram jars with a Universal Product Code of 80268215, and CFIA is verifying the product is being removed from the marketplace.
The food inspection agency said it is currently conducting a food safety investigation, which could lead to the recall of other products.
CFIA has classified the advisory as a Type II recall, which means use of the product could result in “temporary adverse health consequences.” The likelihood of serious adverse health consequences is considered remote in this type of recall.
The agency is asking consumers not to eat the affected product and to either dispose of it or return it to the location of purchase.
“If you think you became sick from consuming a recalled product, contact your healthcare provider,” the notice says.
Histamine is a powerful chemical released by the human immune system. When too much histamine floods the body it can cause a reaction in the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin or cardiovascular system, according to Health Canada.
Symptoms may vary and can include bloating, diarrhea, nasal congestion, sneezing, hives, itching, headaches, and fatigue.
Additional symptoms may consist of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, anxiety, nervousness, sleep disturbances, irregular heart rate, low blood pressure, and menstrual cramps. In more severe cases it can cause anaphylactic shock, which is life-threatening.
Individuals experiencing anaphylaxis may exhibit symptoms that include difficulty in breathing, a drop in blood pressure, or shock, which can result in loss of consciousness and, in critical situations, death.
The only treatment for anaphylaxis is an injection of epinephrine via an auto-injector device known as an EpiPen, Health Canada said.
“Epinephrine is the only medication that can stop an allergic reaction from progressing and must be administered as soon as symptoms of a severe allergic reaction appear,” it said. “The injection must be followed by further treatment and observation in a hospital emergency room.”
