Raw Oysters
Raw Oysters Advisory; labeled “For Cooking Only” should not be sold or served to consumers in the raw form; Recommend notification to establishments that may sell or serve raw oysters via phone, fax or e-mail.
From the information provided by FDA, FDA expects this “For Cooking Only” labeling as a control for the reduction of risk associated with Vibrio parahaemolyticus in oysters to be a temporary measure. FDA is advising these oysters not to be sold or served to consumers in the raw form.
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To Retail Food Regulatory Agencies:
We are providing the following information to you in advance of its delivery to the retail food trade organizations and asking your assistance in advising food establishments that raw oysters labeled “For Cooking Only” should not be sold or served to consumers in the raw form. FDA expects this “For Cooking Only” labeling as a control for the reduction of risk associated with Vibrio parahaemolyticus in oysters to be a temporary measure.
We are asking your assistance to help provide the attached information to retailers and restaurateurs who serve or sell raw oysters. If possible, please forward this advice to your organization’s members and to your state affiliate organizations as well. Certain states are requiring some shipments of oysters be labeled “For Cooking Only” as part of their Vibrio parahaemolyticus Control Plan under the National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP).
This attachment explains what that means and how these oysters should be used. Thank you for helping us get this public health message out to food establishments that serve or sell this product.
If you have further questions, please contact your regulatory agency or an FDA Regional Retail Food Specialist.
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