A significant food recall has shaken the frozen fruit industry, as over 55,000 pounds of frozen blueberries have been recalled due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous pathogen that can lead to life-threatening illness. The frozen blueberries, sold in bulk to distributors, were found to pose serious health risks, leading to an urgent “Class I” recall by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Potential Dangers of Listeria Monocytogenes
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that thrives in various environments such as soil, water, and decaying vegetation. It can infect people through contaminated food products, and its symptoms can range from mild to severe. For healthy individuals, listeriosis, the illness caused by the bacteria, often manifests as fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress. However, for vulnerable populations, including newborns, elderly adults, and those with compromised immune systems, the disease can be fatal.
The severity of Listeria’s effects makes this recall particularly concerning. As the FDA has emphasized, there is a “reasonable probability” that exposure to these affected blueberries could lead to serious adverse health consequences or even death. These blueberries were not sold directly to consumers but were distributed to Michigan, Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin, and Canada. While the precise locations of sale remain unspecified, the recall serves as a warning to anyone who may have consumed or come into contact with these potentially tainted products.
What Led to the Recall?
According to ABC News, the recall began on February 12, 2026, when the Oregon Potato Co. first identified the contamination risk in its IQF (individually quick frozen) blueberries. Upon further investigation, the company and the FDA determined that the batch of frozen berries had been exposed to Listeria monocytogenes. With the FDA upgrading the recall to “Class I,” the situation escalated, as this classification signals that the contaminated product could lead to severe illness or death if consumed.
The frozen blueberries were packaged in 30-pound cases and 1,400-pound totes, and they were distributed to food service providers, rather than being sold directly in retail stores. While the blueberries were not packaged for consumer use, any individual or business who might have purchased or received them should take immediate action.
How to Stay Safe From Contaminated Food Products
In light of this recall, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with contaminated food products, especially frozen fruits. Health experts advise that consumers should always inspect food recalls carefully and check for any product batches that might affect them. Anyone who suspects they have consumed the recalled blueberries should seek medical attention, particularly if they experience any of the symptoms associated with listeriosis.
For businesses that distribute frozen food products, the importance of quality control and frequent testing cannot be overstated. Regular checks for bacterial contamination can help prevent public health crises such as this one. Additionally, consumers should always be cautious when handling and preparing frozen fruits, as thorough washing and proper food storage can mitigate the risk of contamination.
