“Food Alert: Hundreds of Organic Blueberry Boxes Recalled Over Listeria Risk”

 

1. What Happened?

On July 1, the FDA gave a Class I recall—its highest risk level—for 400 bulk boxes (30 lb each) of Alma Pak organic blueberries, after Listeria monocytogenes was found during routine testing. The berries were shipped to a single customer in North Carolina, with lot numbers 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096.

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2. What Is Listeria?

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can survive even in cold storage and cause listeriosis—a serious foodborne infection. It can cause:

• Flu-like symptoms: fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea

• Severe illness: meningitis symptoms like headache, stiff neck, confusion

High‑risk groups include older adults, newborns, pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immunity. In the U.S., listeriosis leads to about 260 deaths per year, making it one of the most deadly foodborne diseases.

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3. Why This Recall Matters

Even though it was a small amount, Class I recalls are serious—they indicate a real chance of severe illness or death .
Frozen fruit isn't automatically safe either—Listeria can stay alive in low-temperature conditions.

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4. What You Should Do

• Check for lot numbers 13325 G1060 or G1096 if you bought blueberries in bulk or for food service

• Don't eat them—throw away or return for a refund

• Clean thoroughly: disinfect any surfaces or containers that touched the berries

• Watch for symptoms: fever, aches, nausea, diarrhea; seek medical help, especially if high‑risk

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5. Staying Safe with Fresh and Frozen Fruit

• Wash fresh berries well—even organic ones

• Keep clean surfaces and utensils

• Learn independent alerts at FDA.gov or FoodSafety.gov

• Be extra cautious if pregnant or immunocompromised