The recall of organic frozen berries has grown to include a product sold in Walmart stores across 16 states, linked to potential E. coli contamination. Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., based in San Carlos, Chile, recalled one lot of Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend due to possible E. coli O145 contamination, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Background and Importance
This recall ties into an ongoing multistate E. coli outbreak linked to organic frozen blueberries from the same supplier. E. coli O145 can lead to severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. While most healthy individuals recover in a week, some cases can develop into hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition causing kidney failure, especially affecting young children, older adults, and those with weak immune systems.
Details of the Recall
The recalled product is the Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend sold in 10-ounce packages, containing strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries. The affected packages carry a ‘Best If Used By’ date of February 9, 2028, UPC 7874211226, and lot code 6040 01-6 on the front.
These products were shipped to Walmart stores in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, and Wisconsin. Consumers are advised to check their freezers and refrain from consuming the affected product. They should discard it or return it to Walmart for a full refund.
Federal Investigation and Past Recalls
The Great Value recall is part of a federal probe into E. coli O145:H28 infections linked to organic frozen blueberries from the company. A prior recall in July involved GreenWise frozen blueberry and mixed berry products at Publix, which the FDA later classified as Class I, indicating a high risk of causing serious health issues or death. As of July 30, twelve illnesses were reported in Florida and Georgia, with four hospitalizations but no deaths.
Following the investigation, the company expanded its recall on September 2 for the Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend, based on traceback information from the earlier recall. The FDA stated there have been no illnesses related to the Great Value product yet; the recall expansion was a precautionary measure.
Rising Food Safety Concerns
This berry recall is among several ongoing federal investigations into foodborne illnesses from pathogens such as E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria, and Cyclospora. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 18,445 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by Cyclospora, since May 1. These cases span 49 states and the District of Columbia, partly driven by an outbreak linked to recalled iceberg lettuce from Mexico. In July, Taylor Fresh Foods recalled the lettuce due to Cyclospora concerns.
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