Major Frozen Blueberry Recall in North America Over Listeria Contamination Risk
Frozen Blueberry Recall in Canada and U.S. Over Listeria Risk

Major Frozen Blueberry Recall Issued Across North America Due to Listeria Threat

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has escalated a voluntary recall of frozen blueberries to its most serious risk classification, affecting nearly 60,000 pounds of product distributed in both Canada and the United States. The recall, initiated by the Oregon Potato Company LLC, which operates as Willamette Valley Fruit Company in Salem, Oregon, involves individually quick frozen blueberries that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a potentially life-threatening food-borne pathogen.

Recall Details and Risk Classification

According to an enforcement report released by the FDA, the recall impacts 55,689 pounds of frozen blueberries. The company voluntarily initiated the recall on February 12, but on Tuesday, the FDA upgraded it to Class I status, which is reserved for situations where there is a reasonable probability that exposure to the product could cause serious adverse health consequences or death. This classification underscores the severity of the potential contamination and the urgent need for consumers and distributors to take action.

Affected Products and Distribution

The recalled blueberries were packaged in two formats:

  • 30-pound corrugated cases with polyethylene liners
  • 1,400-pound totes

These products were not sold directly to consumers in retail stores but were distributed to various locations. In the United States, distribution occurred in Michigan, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin, while the products also reached Canadian markets.

Identifying Recalled Items

Consumers and businesses should check for specific lot codes and expiration dates to determine if they possess affected products:

  1. For the 30-pound cases, affected lot codes include 2055 B2, 2065 B1, and 2065 B3, with expiration dates ranging from July 23 to July 24, 2027.
  2. For the 1,400-pound totes, lot codes 3305 A1 and 3305 B1 are involved, both with expiration dates of November 25, 2027.

It is crucial to note that no illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this recall. However, the FDA has emphasized that the company had not issued a press release about the recall at the time of the report's release, indicating that public awareness may be limited.

Health Risks of Listeriosis

Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. According to Health Canada, symptoms can include fever, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. The infection is especially dangerous for:

  • Older adults
  • Pregnant women, with risks including miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or severe infection in newborns
  • Younger children
  • Immunocompromised individuals

Given these risks, the recall's escalation to Class I status reflects the serious potential for adverse outcomes if contaminated products are consumed.

Ongoing Recall and Consumer Advice

The recall remains active, and consumers who may have purchased or received these frozen blueberries are advised to check packaging details and dispose of any affected products immediately. Businesses should halt distribution and contact the Oregon Potato Company LLC for further instructions. The FDA continues to monitor the situation, and updates may be issued as more information becomes available.

This incident highlights the importance of robust food safety protocols and timely public communication in preventing food-borne illnesses. As the recall progresses, authorities urge vigilance to protect public health across North America.