Publix Blueberry Recall Upgraded to Highest Risk Level

The Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday upgraded a recall of frozen blueberries and mixed berries sold at Publix stores to its highest health risk category, according to an enforcement report.

Publix first announced the recall on July 29 for four varieties of frozen GreenWise organic blueberries and mixed berries sold across eight states, citing potential E. coli contamination. The FDA now classifies it as a "Class 1" recall, the designation used when there is "a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 12 people infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli in two states. No deaths have been linked to the outbreak.

The recalled products were shipped to Publix stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. They carry expiration dates before February 9, 2028, and include:

• 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

Customers who purchased these products are advised to discard them or return them to Publix for a full refund.

E. coli is a large group of bacteria that can cause illness marked by severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting, the FDA said. In severe cases, infection can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can cause kidney failure and be life-threatening.

The upgrade comes a week after the FDA also raised a separate recall to its highest health risk level over potential salmonella contamination.