More than 9,500 cases of Great Value brand 100% apple juice sold at Walmart have been recalled due to elevated levels of arsenic. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently upgraded the recall from unclassified to class 2, indicating that while the product may cause temporary or reversible health effects, it’s unlikely to result in serious harm.
The recall, which was first issued on August 15, involves apple juice that contains inorganic arsenic levels exceeding the FDA’s action threshold of 10 parts per billion (ppb). The agency reported that the affected products were sold in 25 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. The recall was voluntarily initiated by the manufacturer, Refresco Beverages US Inc.
A representative from Refresco provided a statement to ABC News, acknowledging the issue. “We are aware that certain lots of the 100% apple juice we previously manufactured contain inorganic arsenic slightly above the FDA’s 10 ppb action level. As a result, impacted products are being voluntarily recalled,” the statement read. They emphasized that no illnesses have been reported in connection with the product, and reassured consumers that they are taking the situation seriously.
The FDA’s enforcement report noted that the recalled juice could potentially cause health issues if consumed over time, though the risk of severe health consequences is low. Inorganic arsenic is a contaminant that can enter the food supply naturally, and while efforts are made to minimize exposure, it’s not always possible to eliminate it completely.
The recalled Great Value apple juice was sold in six-packs of 8-ounce plastic bottles. The specific product in question has a UPC code of 0-78742-29655-5 and a “Best if used by” date of DEC2824 CT89-6.
Consumers who purchased the recalled juice are advised to stop using it immediately and return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Refresco Beverages stressed that consumer safety is their top priority and that they are working to resolve the issue promptly.
For more information, customers can contact the FDA or Walmart’s customer service for guidance on handling the recalled product.
