- Recall Date: June 10, 2025
- Announced By: U.S. FDA on June 10, 2025
- Company Involved: Bornstein Seafoods Inc.
- Product Recalled: Cooked & Peeled Ready-to-Eat Coldwater Shrimp Meat
- Issue: Possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes
- Product Details: Sold in 1 lb. and 5 lb. bags; multiple lots affected
- Risk: Listeria infection—especially harmful to pregnant individuals, elderly, and immunocompromised
- Action: Stop use, return for refund, contact company at [email protected]
Stick around to find out more about this recall!
What Happened?
On June 10, 2025, Bornstein Seafoods Inc. voluntarily recalled 44,550 pounds of its Ready-to-Eat Coldwater Shrimp Meat after a routine in-process test detected Listeria monocytogenes in the production environment. The potentially contaminated shrimp was distributed to retailers and distributors in California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia, with the possibility of reaching shelves nationwide.
Here’s a breakdown of the key product details:
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Best By/Lot # | Issue |
Bornstein Seafoods | Coldwater Shrimp Meat 250/350 Ct | 1 lb / 5 lb | 614133200246 | A19008–A19039 | Listeria monocytogenes |
Bornstein Seafoods | Coldwater Shrimp Meat 350/500 Ct | 1 lb / 5 lb | 614133200239 | A18989–P11710 | Listeria monocytogenes |
How did they find out? The issue surfaced during routine environmental testing—meaning this wasn’t triggered by illness reports, but by quality control catching it early. No illnesses have been reported (phew!).
What Caused the Issue?
The issue centers around a potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes—a harmful bacteria commonly found in soil, water, and some processed foods. In this case, Listeria was detected during Bornstein Seafoods’ routine in-process sampling, meaning it was caught before the shrimp hit consumers’ plates.
While no illnesses have been reported yet, the presence of Listeria in a Ready-to-Eat (RTE) product like shrimp poses a serious food safety risk, especially since these products are typically consumed without additional cooking (which would otherwise kill the bacteria).
Why Listeria Is a Big Deal
Listeria monocytogenes is one of the few pathogens that can grow at refrigerator temperatures, making it especially risky in chilled seafood and deli products. Once inside the body, it can bypass the digestive system and spread to the bloodstream or central nervous system—leading to potentially severe health outcomes.
Who’s Most at Risk?
- Pregnant individuals (can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or infection of the newborn)
- Older adults (65+)
- People with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to cancer, diabetes, organ transplants)
- Young children are also vulnerable to complications, though less commonly affected
Common Symptoms of Listeriosis
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Confusion or stiffness (in severe cases)
- Miscarriage or stillbirth (if pregnant)
If symptoms arise within a few days to several weeks of consuming the product, medical attention should be sought immediately.
10 Common Questions You Might Have
1. What is Listeria monocytogenes?
It’s a harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness, especially in vulnerable populations. It thrives in cold, moist environments like seafood processing facilities.
2. How was the contamination discovered?
The company found it during routine in-process testing—part of their regular food safety checks.
3. Was anyone harmed?
No illnesses have been reported as of June 10, 2025.
4. Is it still safe to eat shrimp?
Yes—but not the recalled batches. Always check for recall announcements and cook seafood thoroughly when in doubt.
5. Can Listeria survive in the freezer?
Yes. Freezing doesn’t kill Listeria, it just slows its growth. Once thawed, the bacteria can become active again.
6. What should I do with the shrimp I bought?
Check the lot number. If it matches the recall list, return it to the store for a refund and avoid consuming it.
7. I ate the recalled product—should I be worried?
If you’re healthy and asymptomatic, your risk is low. If you’re in a vulnerable group or feel sick, consult a doctor.
8. Where can I find the lot number?
Look on the back bottom of the shrimp bag or the lower left corner of the master case label.
9. How can I stay updated on recalls like this?
Subscribe to FDA recall alerts or follow food safety organizations online.
10. How can businesses prevent contamination like this?
Implement strict sanitation protocols, conduct regular in-process testing, and maintain robust traceability systems.
Here’s What You Should Do:
- Check the bag: Look for the lot number on the back bottom corner of the bag
- Stop using the product immediately
- Return it to the place of purchase for a full refund
- Contact the company with questions at:
[email protected]
No need to fish for answers—Bornstein is cooperating fully with the FDA during the ongoing investigation.
Behind the Brand
Bornstein Seafoods Inc., based in Bellingham, Washington, has a long-standing presence in the seafood industry. Known for wild-caught offerings and sustainable practices, this is not the first time Listeria has hit seafood processors. Similar recalls this year include:
- On May 17, 2025, Bourgeois Smokehouse voluntarily recalled approximately 100 pounds of its ready-to-eat smoked andouille sausage after routine FSIS testing revealed contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
- On May 10, 2025, FSIS issued a public health alert (not a recall, technically) for ready-to-eat Chicken Bacon Ranch Wraps produced by Rachael’s Food Corporation. The issue? Listeria monocytogenes, a foodborne bacteria that definitely doesn’t belong in your lunch.
- On May 10, 2025, Fresh & Ready Foods LLC voluntarily recalled dozens of ready-to-eat sandwiches and snack items due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
- On April 16, 2025, Harvest NYC Inc. issued a recall for its 200g packages of Enoki Mushrooms under the Hofood99 Inc. label. The recall was prompted by the detection of Listeria monocytogenes.
- Blue Ridge Beef voluntarily issued a recall on April 11, 2025, following test results that confirmed Salmonella and Listeria contamination in two of its products: Puppy Mix and Kitten Mix.
“With ready-to-eat products like coldwater shrimp, there’s no room for compromise—Listeria is a serious threat. In today’s food landscape, safety protocols and swift action aren’t just best practices—they’re the foundation of consumer trust.” — Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86
It highlights the ongoing challenge of controlling Listeria in seafood processing environments, particularly with ready-to-eat (RTE) items.
Ensuring Safe Eats
In the wholesale and manufacturing world, ingredient traceability and sanitation protocols are everything. This recall underscores the importance of:
- Rigorous in-process testing
- Transparent supplier communication
- Implementing robust food safety management systems (FSMS)
- Ensuring cold chain integrity
And remember—if you’ve got the recalled shrimp in your freezer, toss it (or refund it). No shrimp cocktail is worth a hospital visit.
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