Restaurants and Consumers in Multiple States Urged to Avoid Oysters Harvested Between 8/28/2023 and 8/30/2023

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a cautionary advisory regarding oysters harvested from the Groton Approved area in Connecticut between 8/28/2023 and 8/30/2023. Dealers CT-393-SS, AQ, CT-004-SS, AQ, and CT-020-SS, AQ with lots L-30 and L-26B1 are affected by this alert.

Who’s Affected:

1. Restaurants and Food Retailers: Restaurants and food retailers in Connecticut (CT), Massachusetts (MA), New York (NY), Pennsylvania (PA), and Virginia (VA) that have recently purchased raw oysters from the Groton Approved area between the specified dates.
2. Consumers: Individuals in CT, MA, NY, PA, and VA who have recently consumed raw oysters harvested from the Groton Approved area between 8/28/2023 and 8/30/2023.

Reason for the Warning:

The FDA advises against the consumption and sale of these oysters due to sample results indicating potential contamination. The oysters were directly distributed to retailers and distributors in CT, MA, NY, PA, and VA, with the possibility of further distribution to other regions.

Contaminated oysters can lead to illness, particularly if consumed raw, posing higher risks for those with compromised immune systems. It’s important to note that contaminated food may appear, smell, and taste normal. Anyone who experiences symptoms of food poisoning, such as diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever, should seek medical attention and notify their healthcare provider. Healthcare providers are encouraged to report such cases to their local Health Department.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning:

Symptoms of food poisoning can vary depending on the type of pathogen involved and may range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include diarrhea, stomach pain or cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. These symptoms may manifest within hours or days after consumption and can persist for a few hours to several days.

Background and Scope:

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Aquaculture (CT DA/BA), took precautionary measures on August 31, 2023, by closing two approved harvest areas and recalling oysters from the Groton Approved area. This action was prompted by sample results suggesting potential contamination. The affected oysters were harvested from 8/28/2023 through 8/30/2023 and distributed to retailers and distributors in CT, MA, NY, PA, and VA, with the possibility of further distribution.

FDA’s Response:

The FDA is issuing this alert as a preventive measure while awaiting more information on the distribution of the oysters. The agency is actively monitoring the situation and is ready to assist state authorities as needed.

Recommendations for Consumers:

Consumers experiencing symptoms related to the consumption of these oysters should promptly contact their healthcare provider for medical attention. If you have concerns or wish to report an adverse event, you can:

• Contact an FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator for direct assistance.
• Complete an electronic Voluntary MedWatch form online.
• Fill out a paper Voluntary MedWatch form for mailing to the FDA.

For additional consumer and industry support, you can visit www.fda.gov/fcic. Your well-being and safety are of paramount importance, and it’s crucial to follow these recommendations in light of the FDA’s warning regarding potentially contaminated oysters.