Frozen Organic Strawberries Recalled Following An Outbreak Of Hepatitis A

Following an outbreak of hepatitis A infections, frozen organic strawberries sold at various stores are being recalled.

After five individuals reportedly contracted Hepatitis A upon consuming the strawberries, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has cautioned the public against consuming, selling, or serving the product. An inquiry conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has revealed that all five individuals had consumed the strawberries provided by a single distributor. The supplier reportedly sourced the strawberries from specific farms in Baja California in 2022.

As a result, two suppliers have issued a recall on the frozen fruit. California Splendor has recalled 4-pound bags of Kirkland brand frozen strawberries that were sold at Costco stores in California. Similarly, Scenic Fruit Company also voluntarily recalled organic strawberries available at Costco, Aldi, KeHE, Vital Choice Seafood, PCC Community Markets, and Trader Joe’s.

The contaminated strawberries in question have “best by” dates that extend from April to November 2024. However, the full recall list is available on the FDA’s website.

Hepatitis A is a liver-attacking virus, which cause illnesses in individuals who consume contaminated food or water after 15 to 50 days. Symptoms of the infection include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, and pale stool. It’s important to note that some people, especially young children  may not display any symptoms.