Publix recalls specific lot of organic frozen blueberries in eight states due to E. coli risk
Publix is recalling a 10-ounce lot of GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries sold in eight southeastern states after reports of 12 illnesses linked to E. coli O145:H28.
Publix has issued a recall for a single lot of GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries after its Chilean supplier, Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., reported possible contamination with the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O145:H28 strain. The affected product, identified by lot code 60401 and a best-by date of Feb. 9, 2028, was distributed to Publix stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.
"There have been reports of 12 confirmed illnesses associated with E. coli O145:H28 infections reported between May 11 and June 5," the recall notice stated.
The bacteria can cause severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting, and may lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, especially in young children, older adults and immunocompromised individuals. Consumers who have the recalled blueberries are advised not to consume them and to discard the product or return it to the retailer for a refund.
Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. said it has instructed customers to remove the lot from distribution while it works with regulators and retail partners, and that it is investigating the source of the potential contamination.
