FDA Human Foods Program
The following is an update from FDA of concern to our subscribers.
Safety Alert for Hepatitis A Virus: Concha Negra (Black Shell) Shell Meat (April 2026)
May 22, 2026
The FDA is advising restaurants and food retailers not to serve or sell and consumers not to eat La Serranita-brand concha negra (black shell) fresh frozen shell meat from Ecuador because it may be contaminated with hepatitis A virus (HAV). La Serranita-brand concha negra (black shell) shell meat was distributed to restaurants and retailers in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania and may have been further distributed. Restaurants and retailers should dispose of these products by throwing them away or contacting their distributor to arrange for destruction.
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC Health Department) is investigating an illness outbreak of hepatitis A cases in New York associated with La Serranita- brand concha negra (black shell) shell meat. La Serranita-brand concha negra shell meat products have been recalled by dealers in New York and New Jersey. Related hepatitis A illness cases have been reported in additional states; investigations by the relevant state authorities are ongoing. To date, the outbreak-associated hepatitis A cases have had onset dates from July 2025 through February 2026.
The FDA was initially notified of the hepatitis A outbreak by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH). The NYC Health Department, NYSDOH, and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation continue to investigate the illnesses associated with consumption of the concha negra shell meat.
The FDA continues to monitor the investigation and provide assistance, as needed, to state authorities. As new information becomes available, the FDA will update the safety alert.
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