Frozen Blueberries Recalled in Massive Listeria Alert After Maker Flags 55,689 Pounds
The U. S. Food and Drug Administration says frozen blueberries recalled by Oregon Potato Company total 55, 689 pounds and pose a life-threatening Listeria risk, a recall that was initiated on Feb. 12 and upgraded to a Class I recall on Feb. 24.
Frozen Blueberries Recalled: scope and timeline
Oregon Potato Company LLC, a family-owned business in Salem that specializes in frozen and dehydrated potatoes, vegetables and fruits, flagged 55, 689 pounds of individually quick-frozen blueberries. The recall was initiated Feb. 12, upgraded to a Class I recall on Feb. 24, and remains ongoing. Federal officials warned that exposure to Listeria monocytogenes "could cause serious adverse health consequences or death. "
Packaging, lot codes and expiration dates
The affected product includes 30-pound corrugated cases with polyethylene liners and a dual-layered design, bearing expiration dates from July 23, 2027, to July 24, 2027, and lot codes 2055 B2, 2065 B1 and 2065 B3. Regulators also identified 1, 400-pound totes packaged in polyethylene liners within Gaylord totes — heavy-duty, industrial-grade plastic bags placed in large bulk-shipping containers — with lot codes 3305 A1 and 3305 B1, both expiring on Nov. 25, 2027.
Where the blueberries were distributed
The recalled blueberries were distributed to businesses in Michigan, Oregon, Washington and Wisconsin, and were also shipped throughout Canada. The product was not sold directly to consumers in retail stores; instead it moved between businesses within the supply chain. The FDA noted the blueberries bear the name Willamette Valley Fruit Company on the product labeling.
Health risks, symptoms and recommended precautions
Federal health officials described Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) as a disease-causing bacteria that can be found in many places and is generally transmitted where food is harvested and processed in manufacturing or production environments. Less severe cases of listeriosis may produce fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea lasting one to three days. More serious infections can cause headaches, a stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions. Pregnant women, young children, adults over 65 and people with weakened or compromised immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness.
To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, officials recommend that consumers, restaurants and retailers wipe up spills, wash hands, clean refrigerators, sanitize surfaces and contact the local health department or a health care provider if they are concerned about possible exposure.
How the recall was communicated and what happens next
The recall was initiated email and continues to be active. Company and regulatory notices indicate the removal of the affected lots from the business-to-business supply chain; public health warnings emphasize that exposure could cause serious adverse health consequences or death. The recall notice and the Class I designation signal an urgent removal and follow-up in coordination with state and Canadian counterparts.
The recall remains ongoing; officials have advised businesses that received the specified lot codes and best-by dates to stop distribution immediately and follow FDA guidance on handling potentially contaminated product. Those concerned about exposure are urged to contact their local health department or a health care provider.
