330 Pounds of Tuna Recalled: Potential Scombrotoxin Alert

Buckhead Meat Company is recalling approximately 333 pounds of its tuna due to the risk of scombrotoxin food poisoning. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has assigned this recall a Class II designation, indicating that consuming the product may cause temporary adverse health effects. The affected tuna was distributed to retailers in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey.

This recall was initiated after the New Jersey Department of Health reported high levels of scombrotoxin in samples of the tuna. Scombroid poisoning occurs from consuming fish with partial bacterial spoilage, leading to elevated histamine levels. Symptoms, which can appear within minutes to two hours of consumption, often mimic allergic reactions and typically resolve within four to six hours.

While generally not severe or long-term, scombroid poisoning can cause symptoms like facial flushing, dizziness, nausea, rash, hives, and in rare cases, blurred vision or respiratory distress. The company voluntarily initiated the recall on July 24, with the FDA classifying it on September 16. It remains unclear if any consumers have fallen ill or if affected products are still available for purchase.