KRASNIY OKTYABR INC. USA Recalls Dry Salted Fish Over Botulism Risk

Aral Silver Vobla recall: Quick summary

• KRASNIY OKTYABR INC. USA is recalling its ARAL SILVER VOBLA Dry Salted Fish due to improper evisceration
• The issue was discovered through routine sampling and lab testing by New York State inspectors
• Improperly processed fish can lead to Clostridium botulinum, a bacteria that causes botulism
• The recalled product was vacuum-packed, contained two whole fish, and was labeled “Product of Kazakhstan”
• Consumers are urged to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund

What happened?

On July 15, 2025, Brooklyn-based KRASNIY OKTYABR INC. USA voluntarily recalled its ARAL SILVER VOBLA brand Dry Salted Fish after the product was flagged during routine food sampling by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Lab analysis confirmed the fish were uneviscerated, meaning they were not gutted before processing.

Why does that matter? The viscera are a known hotspot for Clostridium botulinum spores—dangerous bacteria that can survive in low-oxygen, vacuum-packed environments and cause botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning.

The affected fish were distributed nationwide through retail channels and packaged in clear vacuum-sealed bags with a blue label. Each bag contained two whole fish and was marked “Product of Kazakhstan.”

Product Table

Brand	Product	Size	Issue	State
ARAL SILVER VOBLA	Dry Salted Vobla (Whole Fish)	2 fish/bag	Uneviscerated; botulism risk	New York

What caused the issue?

The sale of uneviscerated fish is prohibited under U.S. regulations due to the increased risk of botulinum toxin forming inside the packaging. When viscera are not removed, the spores of Clostridium botulinum can survive and produce toxins—especially in vacuum-sealed environments that lack oxygen.

At-risk groups

People who may face higher health risks include:

• Infants under 1 year
• Older adults
• Pregnant individuals
• Immunocompromised individuals
• Anyone consuming the fish without adequate cooking

Symptoms of botulism

• Dizziness
• Blurred or double vision
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Abdominal distension or constipation
• Muscle weakness

No illnesses have been confirmed as of July 15, but consumers should seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear after consuming the product.

Questions you might have

1. What product was recalled?
ARAL SILVER VOBLA Dry Salted Vobla (whole fish)

2. Why was it recalled?
The fish were uneviscerated, posing a risk of botulism

3. What is botulism?
A serious illness caused by a toxin that affects the nervous system

4. How was the issue discovered?
Routine inspection and lab analysis by NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets

5. Was the product sold nationwide?
Yes, through various U.S. retail stores

6. Has anyone gotten sick?
No illnesses have been reported as of July 15, 2025

7. What does the packaging look like?
Clear vacuum-sealed plastic bag with a blue ARAL label and “Product of Kazakhstan”

8. Can I cook the fish to make it safe?
Cooking may not destroy botulinum toxin. Do not consume it under any circumstance

9. What should I do if I have the product?
Return it to the store or call the company at 718-858-6720

10. What steps is the company taking?
KRASNIY OKTYABR INC. has issued a voluntary recall and is offering full refunds

Here’s what you should do

• Do not eat the product—even if it looks or smells normal
• Check the packaging: Look for a vacuum-sealed bag with two whole fish, blue “ARAL” label, and “Product of Kazakhstan” wording
• Return the product to the store where it was purchased for a full refund
• Contact the company with questions: 718-858-6720

Behind the brand

KRASNIY OKTYABR INC. USA is a food importer based in Brooklyn, New York, known for distributing Eastern European grocery items. This is their first reported recall of the year involving botulism risk.

Botulism-related recalls from uneviscerated fish have occurred before and serve as a critical reminder for importers and retailers to maintain food safety standards.

Other recent recalls include:

• P. East Trading Corp recalls salted smoked split herring over botulism risk
• Walker’s Wine Juice recalls pumpkin juice due to botulism risk
• SeaBear recalls smoked salmon chowder and Alehouse clam chowder due to potential botulism risk
• AKT Trading Inc. recalls seasoned bamboo shoots due to botulism risk
• Tri-Union Seafoods recalls Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s tuna due to botulism risk
• New Hoque & Sons Inc. recalls Hoque Dry Ghoinnya Fish over uneviscerated product risk

Ensuring safe eats

This recall highlights a recurring issue in food import and processing: failure to comply with U.S. food safety protocols, particularly in handling and packaging of fish. Uneviscerated fish may appear normal to the eye, but they can hide serious health risks that endanger consumers and compromise a brand’s trust.

“Food safety isn’t just a checklist—it’s a long-term commitment. For importers and private label manufacturers, partnering with trusted suppliers and upholding rigorous processing standards is essential to protect consumers and maintain brand integrity.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’s CEO.

Reminder: If you have this product at home, don’t take any chances. Dispose of it safely or return it to the store for a full refund.Talk to our team to source bulk ingredients and packaging that prioritize safety and compliance.