Slade Gorton & Co is issuing a voluntary recall of its “ICYBAY” cooked, ready-to-eat, frozen langostinos (prawns) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems.

Although healthy individuals may suffer short-term symptoms such as fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria monocytogenes infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The product was sold in 1-pound, clear plastic packages marked with UPC 0-73129-61672-8 on the top and with an expiration date of June 2009 and is distributed under the brand name ICYBAY.

The product also was distributed to wholesale accounts, also under the ICYBAY brand, in 5-pound clear plastic packages containing either 70-90 count, 90-125 count or 120-150 count.

The recall includes production dates of July 18, 2007 through Aug. 13, 2007 and/or Julian dates of 199 through 232.

The recalled ICYBAY cooked langostinos were distributed to retailers in Massachusetts and Maryland over the course of the past several weeks. The majority of the retail distribution was removed from shelves immediately upon notice of the potential of contamination. The recalled ICYBAY cooked langostinos were distributed to wholesalers in Minnesota and 18 other states.

The potential for contamination was noted after a Canadian government laboratory, CFIA, found that one sample was believed to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with the product.Consumers who have purchased 1-pound packages of ICYBAY cooked langostinos are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers also can contact the company at 1-800-225-1573.