On 25 April 2025, Pendarves Ltd issued a recall for specific batches of imported whole frozen anchovies due to the possible presence of a marine biotoxin (domoic acid). This toxin can pose a serious health risk if consumed. The affected products, imported from the United States of America, have been distributed across various retail outlets in New Zealand, both in frozen and thawed forms.

Product Details:

1. Product Type: Frozen fish

2. Brand and Name:

• SeaWave brand anchovies (10kg box) – Batch #64987138
• Repacked frozen anchovies – all dates
• Repacked thawed anchovies – all dates
• Package Sizes: 10kg boxes (SeaWave brand) and  Various weights (repacked frozen or thawed)

Distribution Locations:
The affected products have been sold at the following outlets:

• Pak’n Save: Sylvia Park, Hornby, Invercargill, Moorhouse
• Hunter Fish: Papakura, Auckland
• Lim Chhour Supermarket: Auckland Central
• Oceanz Seafood: Henderson
• Sunnyray Seafood: Wairau Valley
• Wild Ocean Seafood Ltd: Henderson
• Seafood Harbour: Newmarket, Mt. Albert, Manukau, Botany
• Sea Treasure Seafoods Ltd: Hamilton
• Seafood Bazaar: Hamilton

Consumer Risk:
The presence of domoic acid, a marine biotoxin, can lead to toxic shellfish poisoning. While no illnesses have been reported, the consumption of contaminated fish can cause serious health effects.

Consumer Advice:

• Do not consume the affected products.
• If you have already consumed any of the recalled anchovies and feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately.
• Return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Contact Information:
For inquiries, contact Pendarves Ltd at:
Phone: 021 530 366

Source:http://mpi.govt.nz/food-safety-home/food-recalls-and-complaints/recalled-food-products/imported-frozen-anchovies/