Thousands of pounds of organic blueberries are being pulled from the market due to potential listeria contamination, according to a recent FDA notice.
Alma Pak International, based in Georgia, issued a voluntary recall of 400 bulk boxes, each containing 30 pounds of blueberries, after routine testing uncovered contamination.
“During routine testing, the firm received positive test results of Listeria monocytogenes on their finished product,” the U.S. Food and Drug Administration confirmed.
Although the recall began in June, the situation escalated on July 1st when the FDA officially designated it a Class I recall, the highest risk level, indicating a “reasonable probability” that the product could cause “serious adverse health consequences or death.”
The berries were shipped to a single customer in North Carolina. Consumers are urged to check for lot numbers 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096, the affected batches under the recall.
Listeria monocytogenes is a potentially dangerous bacteria. While healthy individuals often recover within a few days without treatment, the infection, known as listeriosis, can be life-threatening for vulnerable groups. According to the CDC, it is the third-leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States.
Pregnant individuals, newborns, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems are at heightened risk. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and flu-like signs. The Cleveland Clinic advises those experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.
