The FDA has issued a safety alert advising restaurants, retailers, and consumers not to serve, sell, or eat certain raw oysters and Manila clams harvested from Drayton Harbor, Washington, due to potential norovirus contamination. The alert was issued March 10, 2026, following a norovirus-like illness outbreak associated with raw oyster consumption.
What’s Being Recalled?
Two products are affected, both harvested from Drayton Harbor, Washington, between February 13 and March 3, 2026:
Raw oysters harvested by Drayton Harbor Oyster Company (WA-1723-SS), distributed to consumers in Washington.
Manila clams harvested by Lummi Indian Business Council (WA-0098-SS), distributed to restaurants and food retailers in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New York, Oregon, and Washington. The FDA notes these clams may also have been distributed to additional states not yet identified.
Why Was This Product Recalled?
Both products may be contaminated with norovirus, a highly contagious illness commonly known as the “stomach flu.” The FDA warns that food containing norovirus may look, smell, and taste completely normal, making contaminated shellfish impossible to identify without testing. Norovirus symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, fever, headache, and body aches. Symptoms typically develop 12 to 48 hours after exposure and can last up to three days. The illness can cause dehydration and may be especially severe for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Norovirus spreads through contaminated food, water, and direct contact with infected individuals.
What Should You Do?
Do not eat the recalled raw oysters or Manila clams. Consumers should discard any affected products immediately. Restaurants and retailers should not serve or sell the recalled shellfish and should dispose of any remaining product by throwing it away or contacting their distributor to arrange for destruction. Food preparation surfaces and utensils that may have come into contact with the recalled shellfish should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. If you are experiencing norovirus symptoms after recently consuming raw oysters or clams, contact your healthcare provider and report your symptoms to your local health department. To file a complaint with the FDA, visit the Human Foods Program assistance page at fda.gov.
