The West Coast Seafood Processors Association announced that several member companies have initiated a voluntary product withdrawal of frozen pink shrimp products after in-house testing confirmed unacceptable levels of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. There has been no evidence of consumer illness.

"This action demonstrates the importance and validity of in-house testing procedures put in place by seafood processors," said Rod Moore, Executive Director of WCSPA. "With proper testing and immediate response, our companies can ensure that consumers receive safe, wholesome, and nutritious products."

Listeria bacteria are commonly found in the environment and may be present at low levels in many different food products, including seafood. Individuals with compromised or suppressed immune systems, the elderly, and unborn children can be especially susceptible to illness from certain forms of Listeria.

"While seafood companies make every effort to ensure that products remain uncontaminated, control of this ubiquitous bacteria is especially difficult," said Moore. "As a result, our processors have put in place early response systems to make sure that we protect public safety. The fact that no consumers have been made ill by consuming pink shrimp from our processors shows that our systems are working."

The West Coast Seafood Processors Association represents the majority of shrimp processors in Oregon, Washington, and California. Details on the voluntary product withdrawal can be obtained from Charlie Kirschbaum of Pacific Seafoods in Portland (503-226-2200).

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