A large recall of frozen blueberries sold in Canada and the U.S. has been issued due to potential listeria contamination that poses serious health risks.
A recall of 55,689 pounds of frozen blueberries has been issued due to possible listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recall affects products distributed in both Canada and the United States, particularly in states like Michigan, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin. The recall was initiated by Oregon Potato Company, based in Salem, and was first announced on February 12 but classified as a 'Class I' recall on February 24, indicating a high risk of serious health consequences, including death, from consumption.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) are involved in the response, with the CFIA also advising consumers of the recall. The classification as a 'Class I' recall signifies the gravity of the situation; food safety experts emphasize that listeria can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
As a precaution, the frozen blueberries were sent to food manufacturers across both countries. The public has been urged to check any purchases of frozen blueberries to ensure they do not risk exposure to this potentially dangerous pathogen. The incident underscores the importance of stringent food safety protocols to prevent harmful bacterial contamination in the food supply.
