FDA Issues Class I Recall for Blueberries Due to Listeria Contamination Risk

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated a recall involving organic blueberries produced by Alma Pak International LLC due to contamination concerns involving Listeria monocytogenes. This Class I recall—the most severe category—signals a serious health risk to consumers, highlighting the critical importance of food safety vigilance.

In June 2025, Alma Pak International voluntarily recalled 400 boxes of organic blueberries, each weighing 30 pounds, after routine testing detected the presence of Listeria bacteria. These bulk-packed blueberries were shipped to a single customer in North Carolina. The affected lot numbers are 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096. On July 1, 2025, the FDA upgraded the recall to Class I, indicating a reasonable probability that exposure to these contaminated products could result in severe health consequences or death.

Listeria monocytogenes is a harmful bacterium responsible for listeriosis, a potentially serious infection especially dangerous to pregnant women, newborns, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, confusion, stiff neck, loss of balance, and convulsions. In critical cases, the infection may cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or fatal complications. Prompt medical attention is essential for those who believe they have consumed contaminated food.

The company has reported that all affected products were recovered prior to reaching retail shelves, and no illnesses linked to this recall have been reported so far. Alma Pak International is implementing enhanced corrective and preventive measures, including rigorous environmental monitoring and intensified testing protocols, to prevent future contamination.

Consumers who have purchased organic blueberries bearing the specified lot numbers are strongly advised to discard them immediately. If uncertain about the product’s origin, customers should contact their retailer or the manufacturer for confirmation. For further inquiries or to report any concerns, the FDA can be reached at 1-888-463-6332.

To reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, consumers are encouraged to thoroughly wash produce under running water before consumption, use a produce brush for firmer fruits and vegetables, refrigerate perishables promptly, avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards, and maintain cleanliness of hands, utensils, and food preparation surfaces.

This recall serves as a sobering reminder of the ever-present challenges in food safety and the necessity for continual vigilance to protect public health.

Sources:
People, Healthline, Delish, The Sun, Southern Living, Martha Stewart, Reuters