When shopping for frozen fish, it’s hard to resist the convenience of individually wrapped, vacuum-sealed portions.
They're easy to store, already pre-cut, and portioned for quick, hassle-free cooking.
These vacuum-sealed packs, known as Reduced Oxygen Packaging (ROP), help prevent freezer burn, keep odors contained, and even extend shelf life.
But beneath these benefits, there's a hidden health risk many people overlook: botulism.
Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that affects the body’s nervous system, according to the CDC.
This dangerous condition can begin with mild symptoms like muscle weakness but can quickly escalate to difficulty breathing and, in severe cases, even death