Shark cartilage capsules recalled because of possible health risk

The FDA and NBTY of Bohemia, N.Y., have informed consumers and healthcare professionals of a nationwide recall of three lots of shark cartilage capsules the company manufactured in 2004 and distributed to consumers through mail and Internet orders and through retail stores in the U.S. The product was recalled because of possible contamination with Salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism's getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses, such as arterial infections, endocarditis, and arthritis. Customers can return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. The shark cartilage capsules were sold under the following labels: Puritan's Pride, Nature's Bounty, Natural Wealth, PhysioLogics, Rexall Sundown, and Vitamin World. No illnesses have been reported to date. Customers may contact the company at 1-(800) 217-7668. For specific names and lot numbers of the recalled product, there is a link to the manufacturer's press release at