An urgent recall has been issued for 400 boxes of organic blueberries due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can pose serious health risks, especially to vulnerable populations. The recall was announced on June 9 by Georgia-based Alma Pak International LLC but was only recently classified as a Class I recall by the FDA, indicating a significant public health hazard.
Alma Pak’s blueberries, weighing 30 lbs. each, were shipped to a customer in North Carolina, although it remains unclear if they were distributed beyond this single recipient. The affected lot numbers are 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096. This incident raises concerns, especially in light of the company’s prior issues; for instance, in June 2019, Alma Pak also recalled frozen blackberries due to Norovirus contamination.
Listeria infection, or listeriosis, can lead to severe symptoms including fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress, particularly dangerous for newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may manifest within a few days, making it essential for those who may have purchased the recalled blueberries to monitor their health and seek medical attention if necessary.
As the frequency of food recalls due to bacterial contamination appears to rise, the need for rigorous quality control and oversight in food production has never been more critical. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food safety alerts to protect themselves and their families from potential health threats.