FDA Halts Imports of Farmed Fish From China

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During that time, the FDA tested 89 samples consisting of catfish, basa, shrimp, dace and eel from China. Of these, 25 percent were found to contain drug residues. These included nitrofurans detected in shrimp, malachite green detected in dace, eel and catfish and basa, and gentian violet detected in eel and catfish. In addition, fluoroquinolones were found in catfish and basa. Chinese authorities have acknowledged permitting the use of fluoroquinolones in aquaculture, according to the import alert.

The import alert will remain in effect until the manufacturers can prove to the FDA that their fish are clear of any harmful chemicals, Glavin said.

For people who have these products in their home, the FDA is not recommending destroying them or returning them. In addition, the agency is not recalling Chinese farmed fish from retail stores or restaurants.

Spanish-speaking people can call the Su Familia Health Helpline, at 1-866-783-2645, to have any questions answered. The national helpline offers free health information in Spanish and English, and is available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.(EST) Monday through Friday. The helpline is sponsored by The National Alliance for Hispanic Health.

More information

For more information on banned fish from China, visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.