Frozen Blueberries Recalled Across 4 States to Most Severe Risk Level by FDA

In a significant food safety alert, nearly 60,000 pounds of frozen blueberries have been recalled due to a potential risk of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium associated with severe health risks. The recall, designated as Class I by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), indicates a serious threat to public health which could lead to severe illness or even death if the contaminated product is consumed.

The affected blueberries, produced by Oregon Potato Company LLC under the name Willamette Valley Fruit Company, were individually quick frozen in Salem, Oregon. The FDA report identified the recall, numbered H-0522-2026, as involving approximately 55,689 pounds of the product. This action was voluntarily initiated by Willamette Valley Fruit Company on February 12, 2026, and was officially classified by the FDA on February 24, confirming the recall’s serious classification.

Distribution of the recalled blueberries occurred across four US states—Michigan, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin—as well as in Canada. However, it is important to note that these products were not available for purchase in retail outlets, minimising the risk to consumers purchasing directly from shops.

The blueberries were packaged in bulk, specifically in 30-pound corrugated cases lined with polyethylene and in 1,400-pound totes. The recall encompasses specific lot codes for both types of packaging. For the 30-pound cases, the lot codes include 2055 B2, 2065 B1, and 2065 B3, with expiration dates ranging between July 23 and July 24, 2027. The larger 1,400-pound totes bear lot codes 3305 A1 and 3305 B1, both valid until November 25, 2027.

Listeria monocytogenes poses a significant health risk, particularly for vulnerable populations, including elderly individuals, young children, and those with compromised immune systems. Expectant mothers are also particularly at risk, as Listeria infection during pregnancy can lead to complications such as miscarriage or stillbirth. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), infections caused by Listeria can result in severe illness, often requiring hospitalisation and leading to fatalities in high-risk groups.

As of now, the recall process is ongoing, and the FDA has indicated that Willamette Valley Fruit Company had not issued a press release regarding this situation at the time of their announcement. The agency is actively monitoring the situation and has urged consumers and businesses that may have received the product to discard it immediately to mitigate potential health hazards.

Those who have concerns or questions about the recall are encouraged to stay informed via updates from the FDA and contact health authorities if they believe they may have consumed the affected blueberries. Food safety practices and thorough investigation methods aim to ensure public health is safeguarded against such potentially dangerous products.

In light of this incident, it serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to food safety regulations and the need for manufacturers to conduct rigorous testing of food products before they reach consumers. The risk of Listeria contamination, while rare, highlights the critical nature of ongoing vigilance within the food supply chain to protect public health effectively.

As developments arise concerning this recall, consumers are advised to keep abreast of further announcements from regulatory agencies and remain vigilant about food safety in their own homes.