Frozen Blueberries Recalled in Multiple States Over Life-Threatening Listeria Risk
Federal regulators have announced a nationwide recall of frozen blueberries because of a potential Listeria crisis. The Oregon Potato Company, a family-owned enterprise based in Salem, discovered that 55,689 pounds of their individually quick-frozen blueberries may be contaminated. This announcement was made by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on February 12, with the recall elevated to Class 1 due to the significant health risks associated with the pathogen.
Details of the Frozen Blueberry Recall
Exposure to the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes can lead to severe health consequences, including the potential for death. The affected blueberries were distributed across several states in the U.S., including:
- Michigan
- Oregon
- Washington
- Wisconsin
The product was also shipped throughout Canada. It was noted that these blueberries were not sold directly to consumers in retail locations but were instead transferred between businesses within the supply chain.
Affected Products
The recall includes specific packaging and lot code details. The impacted products consist of:
- 30-pound cases with expiration dates from July 23, 2027, to July 24, 2027.
- Lot codes: 2055 B2, 2065 B1, and 2065 B3.
- 1,400-pound totes with expiration dates of November 25, 2027.
- Lot codes: 3305 A1 and 3305 B1.
These items are packed in polyethylene bags within corrugated cases, designed to ensure product integrity.
Health Implications of Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria linked to foodborne illnesses. Symptoms of an infection may include fever, diarrhea, and vomiting. Although healthy adults typically recover without severe illness, Listeria can be extremely dangerous for:
- Unborn babies
- Newborns
- The elderly
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
These demographic groups are at a higher risk of severe complications, underscoring the importance of this recall.
Conclusion
The FDA is actively monitoring the situation and continues to keep the public informed. Consumers and businesses are advised to remain vigilant regarding potential contamination risks with food products. For ongoing updates, visit Filmogaz.com.
