Walmart Triple Berry Blend Recalled Amid E. coli Outbreak

A voluntary recall of Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend, a 10-ounce product containing strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries, has been expanded due to potential E. coli contamination. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the expansion of this recall on September 3, following a notification from the manufacturer, Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. of San Carlos, Chile. This specific product, identified by UPC 7874211226 and lot code 6040 01-6 with a "Best If Used By" date of February 9, 2028, was distributed to select Walmart stores across more than a dozen states. The affected states include Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky, among others.

This latest recall is linked to an ongoing multi-state outbreak of E. coli infections that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been investigating since May. The outbreak was initially suspected to be associated with blueberries. In early July, the FDA first alerted the public to a recall involving Frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries, also manufactured by Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. and sold at Publix stores. Subsequently, in late July, the FDA announced a second recall encompassing four additional GreenWise Organic products that contained whole blueberries and whole mixed berries. The current expansion brings the total number of infections linked to the outbreak to 17, with six individuals requiring hospitalization, underscoring the severity and evolving nature of the contamination.

Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. initiated the voluntary expansion of its recall on September 2, with the FDA providing public notification the following day. The Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend is the latest product to be implicated in the E. coli outbreak. The CDC's investigation into the outbreak has been ongoing, with the agency working to identify the precise source of contamination and prevent further illnesses. The expanded recall highlights the challenges in tracing foodborne illnesses, especially when multiple products and retailers are involved. Consumers who have purchased the recalled Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend are advised not to consume it and to dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. The FDA continues to monitor the situation and provide updates as the investigation progresses. The involvement of Walmart, a major national retailer, means a significant number of consumers may be affected by this recall. The company's proactive expansion of the recall demonstrates a commitment to consumer safety in response to emerging information from health authorities.