July 9, 2012

FDA warns Taiyo Seafood over raw tuna bacteria

A warning letter to Taiyo Seafood Boston Inc. has been sent by the US FDA alleging that the company has several serious violations of seafood regulations, including a failure to control bacteria and toxins from tuna and mackerel meant to be consumed raw.

The agency said an inspection of the Quincy, Mass., plant between May 10-23, 2012 showed that the company did not conduct a hazard analysis for each kind of fish, including raw Spanish mackerel and vacuum-packed yellowtail tuna, to control food safety hazards including toxins, bacteria and parasites.

The FDA said the company failed to adequately monitor that there is enough ice surrounding the seafood products and to ensure the cooler temperature is a minimum of 40 degrees Fahrenheit, as the company's own food safety plan stipulates.

The FDA requested that the company respond within 15 days, and the letter said the agency could take "further action to seize your product(s) and/or enjoin your firm from operating."

The company could not immediately provide a statement.