hepatitis a outbreak strawberries

Published June 26, 2023 | By valeriemyburgh

The Unseen Dangers in Your Freezer:

A Deep Dive into the Recent Frozen Fruit Recalls

In recent weeks, the food industry has been shaken by a series of recalls involving frozen fruit products. The recalls, which have affected major retailers such as Walmart, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Target, Aldi, and AWG (Associated Wholesale Grocers), have raised concerns about the safety of frozen fruit, a staple in many households. This article will delve into the details of these recalls, focusing on the potential health risks associated with Hepatitis A and Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

The Costco Frozen Strawberries Recall

Earlier this month, Costco, a popular warehouse club, issued a recall for its frozen strawberries due to a potential Hepatitis A contamination. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus. It can range in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a severe illness lasting several months. Although rare, it can cause liver failure and death, particularly in older people and people with other liver diseases.

The recall was a result of routine testing by the FDA, which revealed the presence of the virus in some samples of the product. The Costco frozen strawberries recall was a stark reminder of the 2016 Hepatitis A outbreak linked to frozen strawberries, which led to 143 illnesses across nine states.

The Walmart Frozen Fruit Recall

Around the same time, Walmart, the multinational retail corporation, also issued a recall for its frozen fruit products. The recall was due to a potential Hepatitis A contamination, similar to the Costco recall. The affected products were distributed across the country and sold in various Walmart stores.

The Massive Frozen Fruit Recall Due to Listeria

In a separate incident, a large amount of specific frozen fruit products linked to pineapple provided by a third-party supplier to SunOpta Inc. has been recalled due to a possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Listeria monocytogenes are bacteria that can cause serious harm, especially to young children, older adults, pregnant people, and others with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Pregnant people are especially vulnerable as listeriosis can cause miscarriages and stillbirths.

The products affected by this recall were distributed across the country and sold at Walmart, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Target, Aldi, and AWG. The recall impacts a wide range of products, from the Great Value Mixed Fruit sold at Walmart to the 365 Organic Tropical Fruit Medley sold at Whole Foods.

The Importance of Food Safety

These recalls serve as a reminder of the importance of food safety. While frozen fruit is often seen as a convenient and healthy option, it is not immune to contamination. It’s crucial for consumers to stay informed about recalls and to follow the advice of health officials. In the case of these recalls, consumers are advised to either throw these products away or return them to the store for a full refund.

While the recent recalls are concerning, they also highlight the effectiveness of our food safety systems. Regular testing by the FDA and other health agencies ensures that potential threats are identified and dealt with promptly. As consumers, it’s essential to stay informed and take the necessary precautions when such recalls occur.

Remember, the cost of replacing a bag of frozen strawberries is minimal compared to the potential health risks. So, if you have any of the recalled products in your freezer, don’t take any chances. Dispose of them immediately or return them to the store where you purchased them.

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

In the age of information, staying updated on food recalls has become easier than ever. Most grocery stores and health agencies will post recall information on their websites. Social media platforms are also a great way to stay informed. Follow your local health department, favorite grocery stores, and the FDA for updates.

The recent recalls involving Costco, Walmart, and other major retailers are a stark reminder of the importance of food safety. Whether it’s Hepatitis A outbreak from strawberries or Listeria contamination in mixed fruits, the potential health risks are serious. But by staying informed and taking swift action, consumers can ensure their safety and the safety of their families.

Remember, when it comes to food safety, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So, the next time you reach for that bag of frozen fruit, make sure it’s not part of a recall. Your health and safety are worth it.