Publix has expanded its recall of GreenWise frozen berries sold in Florida after state and federal health officials continued investigating an E. coli outbreak tied to organic blueberries.
Why it matters: The expanded recall affects products sold across Florida, where most of the illnesses linked to the outbreak have been reported. Health officials are urging customers to throw away or return the recalled fruit, even if it has been stored in a freezer.
The recall now includes all lots of:
- GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries (10-ounce and 48-ounce bags)
- GreenWise Organic Whole Mixed Berries (10-ounce and 48-ounce bags)
The products were sold at Publix stores in Florida and several other southeastern states.
The expanded recall follows an investigation that began after the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services alerted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to a cluster of E. coli illnesses.
According to the CDC, 12 people have become ill, including 11 in Florida and one in Georgia. Four people have been hospitalized.
Health officials said the outbreak involves E. coli O145:H28, a strain capable of causing severe illness, including kidney complications in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
What to do:
- Check your freezer for the recalled GreenWise frozen berry products.
- Throw them away or return them to Publix for a refund.
- If berries were removed from their original packaging and cannot be identified, health officials recommend discarding them.
- Anyone who develops severe diarrhea, bloody stools, persistent vomiting or signs of dehydration after eating the recalled fruit should contact a healthcare provider.
Bottom line: Florida remains at the center of the investigation, with nearly all reported illnesses occurring in the state. Health officials are encouraging residents to check frozen food supplies and avoid consuming any recalled berry products while the investigation continues.
