Ma Cohen's Kippered Herring Recalled for Botulism Risk: What You Need to Know

Ma Cohen's Kippered Herring has been recalled for possible Clostridium botulinum contamination, and the product has been permanently discontinued.

The FDA warns consumers not to eat this product even if it does not look or smell spoiled. If you purchased Ma Cohen's Kippered Herring from grocery stores in Michigan, Minnesota, or North Dakota, do not consume it under any circumstances.

Why Was Ma Cohen's Kippered Herring Recalled?

According to the FDA recall notice, announced on May 5, 2026, the recalled kippered herring consists of uneviscerated fish longer than five inches. Uneviscerated means the fish's internal organs were not removed before smoking and packaging — a critical food safety failure.

The potential for contamination was discovered after routine testing by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture found that the product had not been fully eviscerated. When fish organs — particularly the intestines — are left intact, they create an environment where Clostridium botulinum can thrive and produce its deadly toxin.

Botulism is one of the most dangerous foodborne illnesses. The toxin produced by C. botulinum attacks the body's nervous system and can cause paralysis, respiratory failure, and death if not treated immediately.

Unlike many other foodborne pathogens, botulism toxin cannot be reliably detected by the appearance, smell, or taste of food.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall so far.

Which Products Are Affected?

• Product: Ma Cohen's Kippered Herring (smoked fish)
• Brand: Ma Cohen's
• Company: Shining Sea Fish Co., Detroit, MI
• Packaging: Catch-weight packages in clear plastic

Affected lot numbers and expiration dates:

• LOT 25079 — Expiration May 3, 2026
• LOT 25055 — Expiration May 12, 2026
• LOT 25028 — Expiration June 3, 2026
• LOT 26344 — Expiration July 22, 2026
• Distributed in: Michigan, Minnesota, and North Dakota
• Product status: Permanently discontinued

What Is Botulism and Why Is It So Dangerous?

Botulism is a rare but extremely serious illness caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. There are only about 110 cases of botulism reported in the United States each year, according to the CDC — but the fatality rate without treatment can be as high as 50%.

What makes botulism uniquely dangerous:

• It attacks the nervous system.
• It can stop your breathing.
• It requires emergency treatment.
• You can't see or smell it.

Even with treatment, recovery from botulism can take weeks to months, and some patients experience lasting fatigue and shortness of breath.

Symptoms to Watch For

Botulism symptoms typically appear 18 to 36 hours after consuming contaminated food, but can occur as early as 6 hours or as late as 10 days. Watch for:

• General weakness and dizziness
• Double vision or blurred vision
• Drooping eyelids
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Difficulty breathing
• Muscle weakness that progresses downward through the body
• Abdominal distension and constipation

If you experience any of these symptoms after eating kippered herring or smoked fish, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Botulism is a medical emergency.

What Should You Do Right Now?

• Check your refrigerator and pantry for any packages of Ma Cohen's Kippered Herring.
• Do not eat the product.
• Return the product to the store where you purchased it.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you have consumed this product.
• Contact the company with questions at 1-313-542-2637.

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