Frozen fruit products sold in various stores, including Walmart, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Aldi, and AWG, are being voluntarily recalled due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The recall was initiated by Sunrise Growers Inc., a subsidiary of SunOpta Inc., after discovering that fruits from a third-party supplier may be tainted with the bacteria.
What products were affected?
The affected products include 16 oz. Great Value frozen fruit products bags sold at Walmart, as well as Whole Foods’ 365 Organic brand items such as tropical fruit medley, pineapple chunks, organic whole strawberries, organic sliced strawberries, and organic blackberries and bananas.
The recall encompasses additional frozen fruit products sold under various brands. Walmart’s Great Value fruit mix, dark sweet cherries, and mango chunks are included, along with Good & Gather frozen fruit products bags from Trader Joe’s, Season’s Choice tropical blend from Aldi, and Best Choice pitted red tart cherries from AWG.
What Symptoms Can Listeria Cause?
Listeria monocytogenes can cause symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, fever, and other short-term effects in healthy individuals. However, for those with weakened immune systems, young children, and the elderly, the infection can be life-threatening. Pregnant women who contract listeria are at risk of miscarriage.
No Illnesses Recorded So Far
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises individuals concerned about a potential listeria infection to consult a doctor. Fortunately, as of the latest report, no illnesses related to this particular recall have been recorded.
For detailed information regarding specific products, distribution dates, and sale locations, consumers can refer to the FDA website. It’s worth noting that earlier this month, the FDA expanded a recall on frozen strawberries due to an investigation into hepatitis A infections linked to frozen organic strawberries imported from Baja California, Mexico. These strawberries were sold at Walmart, HEB, and Costco. Additional information on that particular recall, which originated in February, can also be found on the FDA website.
Some frozen fruit products recalled due to possible contamination
Steps to take if you have the affected products
Customers who have purchased any of the affected frozen fruit products are advised to discard them or return them to the place of purchase for a refund. Ensuring consumer safety is of utmost importance, and the FDA and the companies involved are working diligently to address the issue and prevent any potential health risks associated with the consumption of contaminated frozen fruit.
