Scale of the Recall Sparks Immediate Action (Image Credits: Unsplash)
West Hartford, Connecticut — A significant recall of frozen catfish products from Vietnam has prompted warnings for consumers across multiple states after federal regulators flagged an import procedure violation.
Scale of the Recall Sparks Immediate Action
Sobico USA LLC initiated the recall of approximately 13,464 pounds of frozen, raw intact Siluriformes fish products on February 19, 2026.[1][2] The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced the action, classifying it as a high-risk Class I recall.[3]
These products, known as broadhead Clarias fish, originated from a facility in Vietnam. The importer discovered the issue during a review of FSIS import requirements and promptly notified authorities. No confirmed illnesses have surfaced, but officials emphasized the potential health risks associated with uninspected imports.
FSIS stressed that such oversights undermine food safety protocols designed to protect public health. The agency now conducts effectiveness checks to ensure retailers and distributors remove the items from shelves.
Products Targeted in the Recall
The recall covers specific frozen items packed in 36-pound cardboard cases. Each case contains individually vacuum-packed portions bearing Vietnam Establishment Number DL 811, shipping mark VN/811/IV/107, and a best-before date of June 23, 2027.[1]
- 36-lb. cases of “Shera BROADHEAD CLARIAS FISH WHOLE/GUTTED,” with pieces weighing 10-18 oz (300-500 grams) each.
- 36-lb. cases of “Shera BROADHEAD CLARIAS FISH STEAKS,” with 1.8-pound packages.
All products trace back to production on June 24, 2025. Consumers should inspect packaging for these identifiers before consumption.
Reason Behind the Import Violation
The core problem stemmed from the products entering the U.S. without required reinspection at the border. FSIS mandates thorough checks for Siluriformes fish from certain countries, including Vietnam, due to past concerns over residues and contaminants.[1]
Importers must present items for examination to verify compliance with U.S. standards. Sobico USA LLC’s procedural review revealed the lapse, leading to the voluntary recall. This step prevents potential exposure to unsafe products in the supply chain.
While no adverse events occurred, the incident highlights ongoing vigilance in seafood imports. FSIS continues surveillance to catch similar discrepancies early.
Distribution Reach and Consumer Guidance
The recalled catfish shipped to wholesalers and retail outlets in five states: Indiana, Michigan, Nebraska, New York, and Ohio.[2] Officials worry some packages linger in freezers or stores.
| State | Distribution Type |
|---|---|
| Indiana | Wholesalers/Retail |
| Michigan | Wholesalers/Retail |
| Nebraska | Wholesalers/Retail |
| New York | Wholesalers/Retail |
| Ohio | Wholesalers/Retail |
Anyone with these products should discard them or return to the purchase point. For questions, contact Long Nguyen at Sobico USA LLC via email at long.nguyen@sobicousa.com or phone at 770-570-7077. The USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline stands ready at 1-888-674-6854.[1]
Staying Safe Amid Seafood Recalls
This recall underscores the importance of federal oversight in global food supply chains. Importers play a critical role in upholding standards, and swift action like Sobico’s helps avert risks.
- Check freezers for Shera brand Clarias fish from Vietnam Est. DL 811.
- Discard or return affected products immediately – no illnesses reported yet.
- Report concerns to USDA hotline for prompt assistance.
As imports grow, consumers benefit from staying informed on recalls. Vigilance ensures safer meals at home. What steps do you take to verify food safety? Share in the comments.
