A serious health warning has been issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after a popular brand of frozen blueberries was found to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacteria that can lead to severe illness. The FDA has urged consumers to immediately stop consuming certain lots of blueberries distributed across several U.S. states.
Listeria infection poses a particular threat to pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. The recall follows routine product testing, which confirmed the presence of the bacteria in a sample batch.
Brand and Product Details
The product at the center of the recall is 16-ounce bags of Wawona Frozen Foods’ Organic Blueberries, sold under the label Great Value—a private brand commonly found at Walmart. These berries were sold in several states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Virginia. The recall applies to packages with the lot code 20095A, best-by date of April 2026, and UPC code 07874212367. No other lot codes or products have been affected at this time.
Distribution and Retail Impact
According to Wawona Frozen Foods, the contaminated blueberries were distributed through major retail chains, including Walmart, and may have been available in both physical stores and online platforms. Retailers are currently removing the affected products from shelves and issuing full refunds for returned items. Consumers who purchased these blueberries are advised to check the packaging for the specific lot code and to discard the product if it matches the recalled batch.
Risks of Listeria Contamination
Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a potentially life-threatening illness. Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or diarrhea. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system or result in miscarriage or stillbirth in pregnant women. The incubation period can range from a few days to several weeks, making it difficult to immediately identify the source of illness. If consumers believe they may have consumed the contaminated product and are experiencing symptoms, they are urged to seek medical attention promptly.
No Illnesses Reported—Yet
As of now, no illnesses linked to the recalled blueberries have been reported, according to the FDA. However, the recall has been issued as a precautionary measure due to the high risks associated with Listeria exposure. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are conducting further testing to ensure that no other products are affected.
Company Response and Public Safety
Wawona Frozen Foods has expressed regret over the situation and is cooperating fully with the FDA. In a statement, the company emphasized its commitment to consumer safety and food quality. “We take food safety seriously and are acting out of an abundance of caution,” said a company spokesperson. The company has also launched an internal investigation to determine how the contamination occurred and has vowed to take additional steps to prevent future issues.
Conclusion: What Consumers Should Do
Consumers are strongly encouraged to check their freezers for the affected product and avoid consuming it. Those who have purchased the recalled blueberries should dispose of them safely and request a refund from the point of sale. For additional information, consumers can visit the FDA’s official website or contact Wawona Frozen Foods directly. This incident is a reminder of the importance of regular food safety checks and prompt action when potential health risks are identified.
