Consumers in multiple states urged to discard affected product after reported illnesses
Category: Health
A multistate outbreak of E. coli infections linked to frozen organic blueberries sold at Publix has prompted a nationwide recall. The recall affects frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries, which have been associated with 12 confirmed cases of illness, including four hospitalizations, but no deaths have been reported.
The specific product involved in the recall is packaged in 10-ounce bags, with a lot code of 60401 and a best by date of February 9, 2028. Consumers who purchased this product on or before July 3 are advised to return or discard it. The affected blueberries were shipped to Publix stores across eight states, including Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
The Florida Department of Health first notified the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on July 1 about an investigation into a cluster of E. coli illnesses. Following interviews with sick individuals, frozen blueberries were identified as the leading food item of interest, leading to the immediate internal stop sale of the product by Publix.
According to reports, illnesses linked to the E. coli O145 strain began between May 11 and June 5, with symptoms including severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Of the nine cases interviewed, seven reported eating frozen blueberries, with five specifying the GreenWise product. The CDC and Florida health department have confirmed that 12 people in two states are infected, with four requiring hospitalization.
E. coli O145 is a pathogenic strain of bacteria that can lead to serious health complications. Symptoms typically develop within a few days of consuming contaminated food but can take up to nine days to appear. Most healthy individuals tend to recover within a week, but vulnerable populations, such as young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, face a higher risk of severe illness.
One of the most concerning complications associated with E. coli infections is hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to kidney failure and other serious health issues. Symptoms of HUS include decreased urination, extreme fatigue, and pale skin, requiring immediate medical attention.
The recall is particularly concerning as it highlights the potential dangers of foodborne illnesses and the importance of food safety. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and state health partners are actively investigating the source of contamination, and additional products may be added to the advisory as the investigation continues. This incident serves as a reminder for consumers to check their freezers and discard any potentially contaminated products.
As the investigation progresses, health officials are working to determine the exact source of the contamination. Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any symptoms of illness to their healthcare providers. If you have purchased the affected blueberries, it's important to take the recall seriously and follow the guidance provided by Publix and health authorities.
Consumers who have questions about the recall can reach out to Publix via email at [email protected] or by calling 336-899-5612 for more information. With the investigation still underway, it is imperative for those who may have purchased the affected product to take the necessary precautions to protect their health.