DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, consumers in Alabama and several other states are being urged not to eat certain frozen GreenWise-brand organic blueberries sold at Publix stores because they may be linked to an ongoing multistate E. coli outbreak.
According to the FDA, the recalled product is GreenWise-brand Organic Whole Blueberries sold in 10-ounce packages with lot code 60401 and a best-by date of Feb. 9, 2028.
The FDA said the blueberries were recalled by Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. of San Carlos, Chile, after illnesses were linked to the product. Alabama is among eight states where the recalled blueberries were distributed through Publix stores.
According to the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 12 people in two states have been infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli. Officials said four people have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported.
According to the FDA, symptoms of E. coli infection can begin a few days after eating contaminated food or up to nine days later. Symptoms may include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea and vomiting. In some cases, the infection can lead to serious complications, including kidney failure.
The FDA recommends consumers:
Do not eat the recalled blueberries.
Check freezers for the recalled product and throw it away or return it to the place of purchase.
Clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that came into contact with the recalled blueberries.
Contact a health care provider if you ate the recalled blueberries and develop symptoms consistent with an E. coli infection.
According to the FDA, the investigation remains ongoing, and additional products could be added if more information becomes available.
