Alert for frozen blueberries sold in the US: E. coli outbreak investigated
The FDA is investigating an E. coli outbreak linked to GreenWise organic frozen blueberries sold at Publix. What to do if you have the product at home
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating an E. coli outbreak linked to frozen organic blueberries sold at Publix supermarkets in eight states across the country.
The product under recall is GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries, in 10-ounce bags, with lot code 60401 and an expiration date of February 9, 2028. The FDA asked consumers to check their freezers and not consume the affected packages.
What product was recalled
The recall was initiated by Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., a company based in San Carlos, Chile, after reports of illnesses associated with E. coli O145:H28 infections.
According to the notice published by the FDA, the product was sold under the GreenWise brand, Publix's own line, and distributed in 10 oz frozen packages. The withdrawal only affects lot 60401 with a “Best By” date of February 9, 2028.
Publix also reported on its corporate site that customers should throw away or return GreenWise frozen blueberries purchased in stores until July 3, 2026.
In which states were blueberries sold?
According to the FDA, the frozen blueberries were shipped to Publix stores in:
The agency indicated that consumers who have the product at home should not eat it and should discard it or return it to the place of purchase.
Reported cases and symptoms
The FDA reported that, as of its most recent update, 12 cases of illness linked to this outbreak had been reported. Local media and reports based on official notices indicate that the infections were recorded between May and June, with cases in Florida and Georgia.
E. coli infection can cause severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea—sometimes bloody—and vomiting. In some cases, especially in young children, older adults or people with low immune systems, it can lead to serious complications.
What consumers should do
The authorities recommend checking the freezer and verifying if the package matches these data:
Those who have the product should not consume it. The indication is to throw it in the trash or return it to the store for a refund.
People who have eaten these blueberries and have symptoms consistent with E. coli should contact a doctor, especially if there is bloody diarrhea, high fever, signs of dehydration, or persistent symptoms.