The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating an outbreak of E. coli linked to frozen blueberries. The recall affects GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries sold at Publix stores in eight states, prompting consumers to check their freezers for potentially contaminated products.
The recall was initiated by Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. a Chilean company that supplied the blueberries to Publix. The grocery chain announced the recall on July 3, 2026 following reports of illnesses among consumers who had eaten the product. The affected blueberries were distributed to Publix stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Which blueberries are being recalled?
The recall specifically targets 10-ounce packages of GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries with the lot code 60401 and a best-by date of February 9, . No other lot codes or best-by dates are included in the recall. Consumers are advised not to consume the recalled berries and to either discard them or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
The outbreak and its impact
As of now, the outbreak includes 12 confirmed cases of E. coli-related gastrointestinal illness with four people hospitalized. The illnesses were reported between May 11, 2026 and June 5, 2026. The E. coli strain involved is known as Shiga toxin-producing E. coli which can cause severe symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.
The investigation into the outbreak began on July 1, 2026 when the Florida Department of Health notified the CDC about a cluster of E. coli cases. After interviewing some of the affected individuals, health authorities identified the organic frozen blueberries as a possible source of illness. Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. has since instructed its customers to remove the affected lot from distribution while it investigates the source of the potential contamination.
Symptoms and complications
Symptoms of an E. coli infection typically appear within three to four days after consuming contaminated food, although they can show up as early as one day or as late as nine days later. The most common symptoms include diarrhea which may be bloody, stomach crampsnausea and vomiting.
While most healthy adults recover within a week with rest and hydration, E. coli infections can lead to serious complications, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. One such complication is hemolytic uremic syndrome a life-threatening kidney condition. Other potential complications include high blood pressurechronic kidney disease and neurological problems.
Preventing the spread of E. coli
To prevent the spread of E. coli health authorities recommend practicing good food safety habits. This includes washing hands frequentlyavoiding cross-contamination of food, and paying attention to recall notices. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food recalls and to take appropriate action if they have purchased affected products.
The investigation into the outbreak is ongoing, and health authorities are working to identify any additional sources of contamination. Consumers who have questions or concerns about the recall can contact Publix or the FDA for more information.
