12,000 Pounds Of Contaminated Berries Recalled – Highest Risk Level

David

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Post on Jul 03, 2025

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12,000 Pounds of Contaminated Berries Recalled: Highest Risk Level Issued

A major recall has been issued for 12,000 pounds of frozen berries due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause serious illness. The recall, issued by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), carries the highest risk level, urging consumers to immediately check their freezers.

The recall affects several brands and product lines, highlighting the widespread nature of the contamination. Consumers are urged to exercise extreme caution and discard any potentially affected products immediately. Failing to do so could result in serious health consequences.

Which Berries Are Affected?

The FDA has not yet released a comprehensive list of all affected brands and product codes. However, initial reports indicate that various types of frozen berries are involved, including but not limited to:

• Strawberries: Several brands of frozen strawberries are included in the recall. Check your packaging carefully.
• Blueberries: Frozen blueberries from multiple suppliers are also affected.
• Mixed Berries: Products containing a mixture of different frozen berries are also subject to the recall.

Why is this Recall so Urgent?

Listeria monocytogenes is a serious pathogen. Infection, known as listeriosis, can cause symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. While these symptoms are often mild in healthy adults, listeriosis can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis, a life-threatening infection of the brain and spinal cord. The high-risk level of this recall emphasizes the severity of the potential health consequences.

How to Identify Affected Products:

The FDA recommends carefully checking the packaging of all frozen berries in your freezer. Look for the following information:

• Product Name: Pay close attention to the specific name of the berry product.
• Lot Number/Best By Date: These numbers are crucial for identifying recalled products. The FDA website will likely be updated with a complete list of affected lot numbers as the recall progresses.
• Distributor Information: Check the packaging for the name and contact information of the distributor.

What to Do if You Have Affected Berries:

Do not consume the berries. Immediately discard any potentially affected products in a sealed bag to prevent contamination of other foods. Contact the distributor listed on the packaging for information on potential refunds or replacements.

Stay Informed:

The situation is rapidly evolving. For the most up-to-date information, frequently check the FDA website (link to FDA website here) and other reputable news sources. The FDA will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. This includes potentially expanding the list of affected products.

Key Takeaways:

• High-risk recall: The recall is of the highest risk level due to the potential for serious illness from Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
• Immediate action required: Consumers should immediately check their freezers and discard any potentially affected berries.
• Stay informed: Monitor the FDA website and news outlets for updates.

This urgent recall underscores the importance of food safety practices and highlights the vigilance required by both consumers and food producers to prevent outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. Your health is paramount; prioritize safety and take immediate action if you suspect you have purchased affected products.