Out of an abundance of caution, IcelandicPlus LLC of Ft. Washington, PA, is recalling its Capelin Pet Treats because some of the fish have exceeded the FDA compliance guideline for fish larger than 5 inches.
The FDA has determined that salt-cured, dried, or fermented un-eviscerated fish larger than 5 inches have been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning in humans between 1981 and 1987 and again in 1991. Since some IcelandicPlus Capelins are larger than 5 inches there is a possible health risk.
The product comes in a clear plastic package or tube, and marked Icelandic+ Capelin WHOLE FISH, PURE FISH TREATS FOR DOGS, or PURE FISH TREATS FOR CATS UPC CODES, 8 5485400775 9; 8 5485400711 7; and 8 5485400757 5 are packaged in a 2.5 ounce tube or a 1.5 or 2.5 ounce bag (lot numbers 02/2020 to 02/2022)
To date there have been no reported illnesses of dogs, cats, or persons in connection with Capelin. Nor has there been any positive test results for Clostridium botulinum from any IcelandicPlus Capelin, but because of the potential risk, and despite no known illnesses in connection with the products, the company have decided in cooperation with the FDA, to announce this product recall.
Clostridium botulinum toxin can cause severe clinical signs including death in both animals consuming the pet treat and people handling the pet treat or coming in contact with contact areas that have been exposed to the product. Common symptoms may include dizziness, blurred or double vision, trouble with speaking or swallowing, difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, abdominal distension, and constipation. Consider that several of the listed symptoms, such as double vision, cannot be easily assessed in animals or conveyed by an animal. Pets or persons experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
The Capelin product was shipped to distributors in the United States with the intent to be sold to Retailers who in turn sell to Consumers. This product would be found in Independent Pet Specialty Stores within all States in the United States.
IcelandicPlus is family owned and run by pet parents who take the safety and wellbeing of its consumers and clients with the utmost importance, as such we are conducting this voluntarily recall to further protect our customers. Additionally, we are changing our Capelin supplier to ensure that the fish in our product are consistently less than 5 inches, or if larger, they will be completely eviscerated.
Distributors, Retailers and Consumers who have purchased IcelandicPlus’s Capelin can return it to the location where it was purchased for a refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1857-246-9559. Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm EST.