A recall of frozen berry products has been expanded due to potential E. coli contamination, affecting specific items sold under the Great Value brand at Walmart and one product from Trader Joe’s. The latest announcement from Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. came on 2nd October, following previous recalls issued in July and September this year.
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The expanded recall specifically targets Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend in 10 oz. packages carrying the UPC code 7874211226, with best before dates of 31 January and 10 February 2028. Additionally, consumers should be aware of Great Value Organic Blueberries in 10 oz. packs marked by UPC 7874211213, with a range of best before dates from 19 January 2028 to 12 June 2028. Lot codes associated with these products include 6 031 01, 6 041 01, 6 019 01, 6 040 01, and 6 163 01. For Trader Joe’s customers, affected items include the 12 oz. Organic Mixed Berry Blend, identified by UPC 00977654 and a best before date of 20 February 2028.
Consumers have been advised to check their freezers for these products. If they find the affected items, they should not consume them; instead, they should either discard the products or return them to the point of purchase for a full refund. The recall impacts Walmart stores across 30 states in the US, including Alabama, Florida, and Virginia, as well as Puerto Rico. Trader Joe’s locations in 26 states and the District of Columbia are also affected.
A spokesperson for Walmart emphasised that safety is a priority, stating the company acts swiftly upon notification of recalls by ensuring impacted products are removed from stores and sales are blocked at registers and online platforms. Additionally, they are collaborating closely with their supplier and advising customers to stop using the affected items.
The recall actions come amidst a multistate E. coli outbreak investigation linked to the suppliers of the berries. Despite the serious implications of E. coli, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared the outbreak over on 21 September, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) completed its investigations regarding the matter. No illnesses have been reported that are directly associated with the recalled products, according to Trader Joe’s.
In a statement on its website, Trader Joe’s reassured consumers that the recall was initiated as “a precautionary measure” after traceback information linked certain frozen blueberries to the previous recalls. They communicated that no illnesses related to their products have been reported, and regulatory investigations have been concluded with no further expansions expected for their items.
E. coli can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including significant stomach cramps, diarrhoea, and vomiting. It poses a greater risk for vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. In some cases, E. coli infections can result in a serious condition known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).
Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. has stated it is working with regulatory authorities and consumers regarding the recall. However, they have not responded to requests for further comment at this stage. Customers are urged to stay vigilant and verify their frozen food items to ensure safety in light of this expanded recall.