The recall of frozen blueberries sold at Walmart and Trader Joe’s has expanded across 30 states. Chilean producer Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. issued the voluntary recall due to potential E. coli contamination. The expansion affects frozen fruit products distributed to stores in North Texas, where public health officials have linked cases of E. coli infection to the consumption of the frozen produce.
Northwest Arkansas shoppers are likely to encounter the affected items at local branches of the nation’s largest retailers. Trader Joe’s operates stores in Rogers, Springdale, and Bentonville, while Walmart locations throughout Benton and Washington counties offer a wide selection of the recalled brands. The products under scrutiny were sold as generic or private-label frozen blueberries, packaged in 15-ounce bags.
What is the risk?
Frozen fruit carries distinct risks compared to fresh produce because it often undergoes limited washing before packaging and may contain ice crystals that can harbor bacteria. E. coli is a bacterium that can cause severe foodborne illness, with symptoms ranging from bloody diarrhea and cramping to hemolytic uremic syndrome, a condition that can lead to kidney failure.
Current data indicates that nine people across multiple states have been infected. Local health departments urge residents who have purchased the specific bags of frozen blueberries to check their freezers immediately, regardless of the product’s “Best By” date. The contamination may persist in a frozen state due to the ability of the bacteria to survive freezing.
Family Table/Trader Joe’s 100% Organic Wild Blueberries and Great Value Private Label Wild Blueberries are listed in the recall notice. The recall was initiated after routine testing revealed potential presence of the bacteria. The company noted that the initial recall was limited to certain western and southwestern states, but the scope has broadened rapidly following further identification of the strain.
The source of the outbreak has been traced to the Fyffes Parque Aconcagua facility in the Araucanía region of Chile. Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. imports fruit from this facility under various contract conditions depending on the customer. The company stated that once the potential for contamination was identified, they ceased operations at the facility as part of a safety review.
Consumer guidance
The Food and Drug Administration recommends against eating the recalled products. Consumers who have purchased the affected blueberries should dispose of them in a sealed plastic bag in the trash or recycle bin to prevent others from consuming them. For those who have already washed the fruit, allowing it to remain in the sink does not eliminate the risk, as the bacteria are not eliminated by water alone.
Healthcare professionals advise residents not to prepare food for others if they have been sick
Source: 5News KFSM
