South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has taken swift action to ban and recall specific batches of frozen shrimp meat imported from Vietnam. This action comes after the detection of Staphylococcus aureus, a food poisoning bacteria, in the affected products.

Details of the Ban and Recall

The Ministry’s announcement on the 29th specified that the banned products include 120g and 200g packages of frozen Vietnamese white shrimp meat sold by ‘Soma Project Co., Ltd.’ These shrimp products were packaged raw and imported for sale in South Korea.

The identified batches have a manufacturing date of November 30, 2023, and an expiration date set at 24 months from the manufacturing date.

Concerns over Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus, characterized by its grape-like shape, is known for secreting toxins that can lead to food poisoning. Common symptoms of consuming food contaminated with this bacteria include vomiting and diarrhea.

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has issued a strong advisory to consumers who have purchased the affected shrimp products. Consumers are urged to immediately discontinue consumption and return the products to the place of purchase for a refund or proper disposal.