Gomez Shellfish, LLC has recalled all shellfish harvested from parts of Hammersley Inlet in Mason County, Washington, after five people became ill with norovirus-like symptoms linked to consuming the raw oysters. The recall was announced April 20, 2026, after the Washington State Department of Health notified the FDA. The recalled shellfish was distributed to Washington, Oregon, California, Texas, and potentially other states.
What’s Being Recalled?
The recall covers all species of shellstock — including oysters and clams — harvested by Gomez Shellfish, LLC (certification number WA-1724-SS) from parts of Hammersley Inlet, Washington, between March 22 and April 9, 2026. In Whatcom County, Washington, the recalled oysters were sold at the Community Food Co-op downtown store between March 27 and March 31, and served at Rock & Rye restaurant between March 29 and April 4, and at Keenan’s at the Pier between March 19 and March 23 and between March 29 and April 3.
Why Was This Product Recalled?
The Washington State Department of Health identified five people in Whatcom County who became ill with norovirus-like symptoms after eating raw oysters from this harvest. Reported symptoms included vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fatigue, beginning roughly one to two days after consumption. Norovirus is a highly contagious pathogen that can survive in shellfish, which filter large volumes of water and can concentrate harmful microorganisms. Tainted shellfish can look, smell, and taste entirely normal while still harboring the virus. The FDA warns that recalled shellfish can also cross-contaminate food prep surfaces — employees should wash hands and sanitize all contact surfaces.
What Should You Do?
Do not eat any oysters or clams from Gomez Shellfish, LLC harvested between March 22 and April 9, 2026. Throw the product away immediately — do not return it to the water. If you dined at Rock & Rye or Keenan’s at the Pier in Bellingham, Washington, or purchased shellfish from the Community Food Co-op downtown location during the dates listed, monitor yourself for symptoms. If you develop vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, or fatigue, contact your healthcare provider. To report a suspected foodborne illness, contact your local health department or visit the FDA’s MedWatch program at fda.gov/safety/medwatch.
Source: https://www.livenowfox.com/news/shellfish-recall-issued-over-potential-norovirus-contamination
