Early this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted an update about an ongoing investigation into an E. Coli outbreak believed to be affecting multiple states.
The outbreak was believed to be linked to blueberries, and as a result, one blueberry product was recalled.
But now, additional berry products are being recalled as the outbreak investigation continues. Here’s what you need to know.
What’s happened?
On July 3, Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. of San Carlos, Chile announced a recall of one of its blueberry products over concerns that it could be linked to the E. coli outbreak. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) posted the recall notice three days later, on July 6.
The recall covered a specific lot of Frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries, which were sold at Publix stores.
Now, Publix itself has initiated a recall of additional GreenWise berry products sold at its stores, out of concern that they could also be contaminated with E. coli.
It should be noted, however, that none of the products have been confirmed as the source of the outbreak, nor have they been identified as contaminated with E. coli.
Instead, Publix says it is recalling the additional berry products “out of an abundance of caution.”
It’s a caution that seems warranted. According to the CDC’s most recent update on the E. coli outbreak linked to frozen blueberries on July 30, the outbreak has resulted in 12 confirmed cases so far, with a third of those individuals requiring hospitalization.
What products are being recalled?
The original recall initiated by Frutas y Hortalizas S.A. on July 3 covered only one product:
- Frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries in 10oz packaging, with the lot code 60401 and Best By Date of February 9, 2028
Publix’s new recall expands to all lots of four additional GreenWise berry products, including:
- GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries, 10-ounce, UPC 41415-06453
- GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries, 48-ounce, UPC 41415-12053
- GreenWise Organic Whole Mixed Berries, 10-ounce, UPC 41415-06753
- GreenWise Organic Whole Mixed Berries, 48-ounce, UPC 41415-12153
Images of the recalled products’ packaging can be found here.
Where were the recalled products sold?
Publix says that the four berry products included in its recall were shipped to Publix retail stores in the following states:
- Alabama
- Florida
- Georgia
- Kentucky
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Virginia
What should I do if I have the recalled products?
Publix says that if you purchased any of the recalled products, you should not consume them.
Instead, you should return them to their place of purchase for a full refund, or you should discard them.
Those who have additional questions or concerns about the recalled products can contact Publix Customer Care at 1-800-242-1227.