The French government has issued a nationwide recall of raw shrimp and prawns due to contamination by Vibrio vulnificus, commonly known as the “flesh-eating bacteria.” The recall, which affects multiple retail outlets, underscores the growing public health risks associated with bacterial contamination in seafood.

Contaminated Products and Distribution

The affected prawns, sold primarily at Auchan stores across France, were available between August 27 and September 5, 2024. These prawns, sized 30/40 and packaged in 400-gram portions, were sold in the self-service section of Auchan’s traditional fishmonger. The recall extends to all brands retailing Auchan products during this period.

Similarly, the recall covers defrosted raw shrimp from the Pescanova Krustasnord brand, caliber 25/35, sold in 2-kilogram trays by Intermarché. The shrimp were available between September 3 and September 6, 2024, across France.

Public Health Warning

Authorities are urging consumers to cease consumption of these products immediately. Buyers are advised to return the shrimp and prawns to the point of sale for a full refund. The recall process for prawns will continue until October 5, while the procedure for shrimp ends on September 20.

According to Rappel Conso, the French government’s food safety platform, consumption of seafood contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus can cause mild gastrointestinal distress in healthy individuals. However, for people with pre-existing conditions, the bacteria may lead to severe non-intestinal infections. There is also a significant risk of skin infections if the shellfish is handled with existing wounds.

The Rising Threat of Vibrio Vulnificus

Vibrio vulnificus is a marine bacterium related to the cholera family. While it poses a serious health threat, it is particularly notorious for its ability to infect wounds, giving rise to its grim nickname, the “flesh-eating bacterium.” The bacterium’s spread has been linked to the warming of ocean temperatures, which facilitates its proliferation.