FDA Gives Publix Frozen Berry Recall Its Highest Risk Classification — Check Your Freezer

GreenWise frozen blueberries and mixed berries sold at Publix are included in a Class I recall over potential E. coli contamination. Shoppers should check freezer packages carefully and avoid eating recalled products. (Pexels).

A bag of frozen berries can sit unnoticed in the back of a freezer for months, which is exactly why shoppers should pay attention to a Publix recall that has now received the FDA’s highest risk classification. The FDA classified the GreenWise frozen berry recall as Class I on August 18 over possible E. coli O145:H28 contamination, a designation used when exposure carries a reasonable probability of serious health consequences or death. The recall itself had already expanded on July 29 to cover all lots of four GreenWise Organic frozen blueberry and mixed-berry products. FDA reports 12 illnesses, four hospitalizations and no deaths in the outbreak investigation, with illnesses reported in Florida and Georgia. If you checked your freezer when the recall first appeared in early July, check again—the lot number that looked safe then may no longer matter.

Why You May Need to Check Your Freezer Again