If you’re one of the many people who love to keep a stash of frozen berries for smoothies, oatmeal, or baking, you’ll want to pay close attention to this news. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated a blueberry recall to its most serious classification, and it involves popular organic frozen berries sold at Publix. This isn’t just a routine advisory; it’s a urgent warning that demands immediate action.
What is the Blueberry Recall All About?
On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, the FDA officially upgraded a blueberry recall first announced by Publix on July 29, 2026, to a “Class 1” level . This is the agency’s highest risk category, reserved for situations where there is a “reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death” . This decision was prompted by an ongoing investigation into a multistate outbreak of E. coli O145:H28 infections .
The recall covers four specific varieties of frozen GreenWise organic berries that were shipped to Publix stores in eight states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia .
Which Products Are Affected by the Blueberry Recall?
To ensure you’re fully informed, here are the exact details of the products included in this blueberry recall. Please check your freezer immediately for the following items :
- GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries, 10-ounce – UPC 41415-06453
- GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries, 48-ounce – UPC 41415-12053
- GreenWise Organic Whole Mixed Berries, 10-ounce – UPC 41415-06753
- GreenWise Organic Whole Mixed Berries, 48-ounce – UPC 41415-12153
These products have expiration dates before February 9, 2028, meaning many could still be sitting in freezers . Even if you bought them weeks ago, they are part of the blueberry recall and should not be consumed.
Why is This Blueberry Recall at the Highest Risk Level?
The blueberry recall was escalated after federal investigators linked the berries to a Shiga toxin-producing E. coli outbreak. This specific strain can cause severe illness. To date, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 12 infections across two states (Florida and Georgia), with four people requiring hospitalization . While there have been no reported deaths, the severity of potential illness is why this blueberry recall was given a Class I designation .
The investigation revealed that several individuals who became ill specifically reported eating GreenWise Organic frozen blueberries purchased at Publix . This epidemiological link, combined with concerning findings during a remote inspection of the Chilean supplier, Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., prompted the expansion and escalation of the initial blueberry recall .
Understanding the Dangers: Why E. coli is a Serious Threat
E. coli O145 is a group of bacteria that can cause a range of symptoms. According to the FDA, these can include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (which may be bloody), and vomiting . While most healthy individuals may recover within a week, the blueberry recall is critical because some infections can lead to a severe complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) .
HUS is a type of kidney failure that can be life-threatening and is particularly dangerous for:
Symptoms of an E. coli infection typically appear two to eight days after exposure. You should contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
- Diarrhea accompanied by a fever higher than 102°F
- Bloody diarrhea
- Diarrhea lasting more than three days
- Vomiting that prevents you from keeping liquids down
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, reduced urination, dizziness)
What Should You Do About This Blueberry Recall?
If you have any of the affected products in your home, do not eat them. The FDA and Publix have issued clear instructions :
- Discard the Product: Throw the recalled berries away in a sealed container so they cannot be accidentally consumed by people or animals.
- Return for a Refund: You can also return the products to any Publix store for a full refund.
- Deep Clean Your Freezer: Because the products were frozen, it’s recommended to wash and sanitize any containers, utensils, or surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled berries to prevent cross-contamination . This is a crucial step many people overlook during a blueberry recall.
How Did This Blueberry Recall Start?
The blueberry recall began on July 3, 2026, with a voluntary recall by the Chilean supplier, Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., which initially covered only a single lot of 10-ounce frozen blueberries . As the investigation into the outbreak continued and concerns grew about additional lots, Publix took the precautionary step of expanding the blueberry recall to include all lots of the four berry products mentioned above . The recent Class I upgrade is a final, serious step in this ongoing public health effort.
What If I Have Questions?
Publix has set up a dedicated customer care line for inquiries about this blueberry recall. You can contact Publix Customer Care at (800) 242-1227, available from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday . For more information on the outbreak investigation, you can also visit the CDC website.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
This blueberry recall serves as an important reminder for all of us to stay vigilant about food safety. It’s not just about checking your pantry for cans with expiration dates; it’s also about regularly checking for recalls on frozen and other stored items. Please take a moment to check your freezer and share this information with friends and family, especially those who shop at Publix. By staying informed, we can all help protect ourselves and our loved ones from the serious health risks associated with this blueberry recall.
