Walmart and Trader Joe's expand frozen berry recall over possible E. coli contamination
The FDA announced an expanded recall of certain Great Value and Trader Joe's frozen berry products after tests linked them to the E. coli O145 strain, affecting stores in dozens of states.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said on Oct. 2 that Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. is recalling additional batches of frozen berries sold at Walmart and Trader Joe’s because of potential contamination with the E. coli O145 strain. The recall adds to two earlier actions by the Chilean producer earlier this year.
The affected items include Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend (10 oz), Great Value Organic Blueberries (10 oz) and Trader Joe’s Organic Mixed Berry Blend (12 oz), each identified by specific UPC codes, best-if-used-by dates and lot numbers. The Great Value products were distributed in 30 states and Puerto Rico, while the Trader Joe’s blend reached 26 states and the District of Columbia.
"Consumers should not consume the recalled products and may return them to the retailer for a full refund," the FDA announcement stated.
The agency advises anyone who purchased the listed products to discard them or return them for a refund. No further illnesses have been reported, but the bacteria can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and may be more serious for young children and older adults.
The recall does not affect other frozen berry varieties, which remain available for purchase.