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More than 330 pounds of Buckhead tuna have been recalled across five states due to elevated levels of scombrotoxin, a toxin that can cause food poisoning. The recall affects tuna distributed in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. The FDA classified the recall as Class II, meaning the product may cause temporary or medically reversible health consequences.
The recall was initiated by Buckhead Meat Company, operating as Trinity Seafood in Lakewood, New Jersey, after the New Jersey Department of Health found two tuna samples with high levels of scombrotoxin. This toxin can cause scombroid poisoning, with symptoms like facial flushing, sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache, hives, and abdominal cramps appearing within minutes to two hours. Severe cases may lead to blurred vision, respiratory distress, and tongue swelling.
The affected tuna was sold in refrigerated Styrofoam containers, with weights of 10, 12, 15, and 3-to-5 pounds. The product carries the code 0004255 and several "Vat" identifiers. The FDA's formal classification of the recall occurred on September 16, nearly eight weeks after the company initiated it. The recall remains ongoing, with no termination date announced.
Scombrotoxin poisoning is linked to elevated histamine levels in fish like tuna when they are improperly refrigerated or exposed to unsafe temperatures. Consumers are advised to check for the affected product and ensure it is not consumed.