CFIA recalls Stellar Bay Shellfish Kusshi oysters over possible norovirus contamination

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency issued a food recall warning on Feb. 12 for Stellar Bay Shellfish Farmed Oyster, Kusshi oysters because of possible norovirus contamination. The agency said illnesses have been reported, and the oysters were distributed in British Columbia and possibly other provinces and territories.

The recall matters for anyone who bought these oysters to eat at home or who serves oysters in a business setting, because norovirus can cause sudden gastrointestinal illness. The CFIA says anyone who thinks they became sick after eating the recalled oysters should contact a health-care provider.

The CFIA said the recalled products are Stellar Bay Shellfish Farmed Oyster, Kusshi in these package sizes and codes:

• 5 dozen: Harvest date 01-29-26; process date 01-29-26; harvest area/location BC 17-20 Nanoose Bay CLF #1401656; orig harvest day 019-LOT-W-4-019-6
• 5 dozen: Harvest date 01-28-26; process date 01-28-26; harvest area/location BC 17-20 Nanoose Bay CLF #1401656; orig harvest day 019-LOT-W-4-019-6
• 2.5 dozen: Harvest date 01-28-26; process date 01-28-26; harvest area/location BC 17-20 Nanoose Bay CLF #1401656; orig harvest day 019-LOT-W-4-019-6

The agency said the recalled oysters have no UPC.

The CFIA said consumers and businesses should not consume, serve, use, sell, or distribute the recalled oysters. Recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the location where they were purchased.

The CFIA said the recall was triggered by its inspection activities. The agency is conducting a food safety investigation that may lead to the recall of other products, and it is verifying that recalled products are being removed from the marketplace.

The CFIA says people with norovirus illness usually develop symptoms within 24 to 48 hours, though symptoms can start as early as 12 hours after exposure. The agency said symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach cramps. It also said other symptoms may include low-grade fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, and fatigue.

Most people feel better within one or two days, the CFIA said. In severe cases, the agency said patients may need hospitalization and intravenous fluids.