On May 5, 2026, Shining Sea Fish Co. recalled catch-weight packages of Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring because they may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can cause life-threatening illness or death.

(See ConsumerLab’s Tuna, Salmon, Sardines & Mackerel Review for tests of related products and our Top Picks.)

Consumers should not eat the product, even if it does not look or smell spoiled.

Botulism is a potentially fatal form of food poisoning. Symptoms may include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, trouble speaking or swallowing, difficulty breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension, and constipation. People experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

The recalled Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring (see product photos) was distributed in retail grocery stores in Michigan, Minnesota, and North Dakota. The product is packaged in a clear plastic container with a foil label and lot numbers on the back. Expiration dates are printed on the back of the package or listed on store-added stickers along with the catch weight.

Recalled Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring can be identified by the following:

• Lot 25079; Expiration May 03, 2026
• Lot 25055; Expiration May 12, 2026
• Lot 25028; Expiration June 03, 2026
• Lot 26344; Expiration July 22, 2026

The potential for contamination was found after routine testing by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture showed that the product had not been fully eviscerated. The product has been permanently discontinued.

Consumers who purchased Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring should return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

For more information, visit the FDA link:

Shining Sea Fish Co. Recalls “Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring” Because of Possible Health Risk

See related recalls and warnings:

Sea Moss Gel Superfood Recalled Due to Possible Health Risk
Trader Joe’s, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Genova Canned Tuna Recalled