FL Recalls Raw Oysters Linked To Salmonella Outbreak

TALLAHASSEE, FL — Health officials this week ordered a recall of wild oysters harvested in Florida that may be linked to a salmonella outbreak in three states.

According to an alert from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the recall affects all wild oysters harvested between Dec. 16, 2022, and Feb. 24 in the FL-3012 shellfish harvesting area near Cedar Key.

The recall includes wild oysters in the shell and shucked wild oysters, officials said.

State health officials ordered the recall after fielding several reports of salmonella illnesses among people who consumed oysters harvested at Cedar Key. The outbreak affected people in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama, and included multiple hospitalizations.

State officials have since closed the FL-3012 shellfish harvesting area to conduct testing. The area will reopen once officials determine that it's safe to resume oyster harvesting.

No other seafood is affected, officials said.

Consumers who purchased Florida oysters since Dec. 16 should check packages to see if the oysters were harvested from FL-3012, officials said. If unpackaged, consumers should contact the seller to determine where the oysters were harvested.

Restaurants and markets should contact distributors for information and with questions.

Any oysters harvested from FL-3012 should be thrown away, officials said.

Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal illnesses in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Those infected with salmonella may have symptoms including fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

People experiencing any symptoms associated with salmonella after eating oysters should contact their doctor.