Federal officials have intensified a safety alert after contaminated blueberries were linked to a dangerous foodborne illness.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has classified a recall of Alma Pak International LLC blueberries as a Class I event, its highest level of concern, following the detection of Listeria monocytogenes on the fruit, Daily Mail reported.
Last month, Alma Pak International LLC, a produce facility based in Georgia, recalled 400 boxes of blueberries. Each box weighed 30 pounds, for a total of 12,000 pounds of fruit. The blueberries were shipped exclusively to a customer in North Carolina.
The recall escalated when the FDA raised the risk classification to Class I. This classification indicates that a product presents a credible danger of serious health consequences or death. The agency determined that the level of contamination could be dangerous to consumers, particularly individuals in high-risk groups.
According to FDA documentation, the contamination was discovered during routine testing at the Georgia packing facility. The tests revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes on finished blueberries ready for distribution. It remains unclear whether the North Carolina customer redistributed the blueberries further.
“During routine testing, the firm received positive test results of Listeria monocytogenes on their finished product,” the FDA reported following its investigation. No illnesses related to this particular recall have been confirmed as of yet.
Although Listeria outbreaks are most commonly linked to deli meats and soft cheeses, blueberries are typically considered low-risk for contamination. Their naturally low pH makes them an unfavorable environment for Listeria bacteria. Instances of fruitborne listeriosis, particularly involving blueberries, are unusual.
However, there has been at least one previous event. In 2022, another blueberry recall was issued in Oregon over similar Listeria concerns, although no illnesses were reported in that case either. These incidents underscore the importance of vigilance even in products typically viewed as safe.
Listeriosis, the illness caused by the bacterium, can start with flu-like symptoms, including fever, muscle pain, nausea, and headaches. If not treated promptly, the bacteria can infiltrate the nervous system, resulting in confusion, seizures, or even death.
The disease poses the most risk to specific populations. Pregnant women, newborns, seniors, and individuals with weakened immune systems face a significantly higher chance of severe complications. In pregnant individuals, listeriosis may lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or life-threatening complications for the newborn.
Among older adults and immunocompromised people, the bacteria can cause meningitis and other grave neurological problems. According to public health data, approximately 20% to 30% of people diagnosed with listeriosis in the U.S. do not survive the illness.
Each year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates the country sees 1,600 cases of listeriosis, resulting in about 260 deaths. These numbers make it one of the deadliest foodborne diseases tracked by public health agencies.
While cases involving fruit are rare, notable outbreaks have been repeatedly traced to ready-to-eat deli meats. A 2024 outbreak tied to Boar’s Head products sent at least 61 people to hospitals and resulted in 10 deaths. That outbreak was eventually linked to unclean conditions at the company’s Virginia plant.
Investigations revealed sanitation lapses, including mold growth, insect presence, and leaking fluids from ceilings at the Boar’s Head facility. These conditions were deemed significant contributors to Listeria spreading within the factory environment.
Among the victims was Günter “Garshon” Morgenstein of Newport, Virginia, who developed meningitis after consuming contaminated meat and later died. Another victim, Sue Fleming, 88, spent nine days in intensive care and has not fully recovered, according to her family. She and her husband are currently pursuing legal claims against the product manufacturer and retail outlet.
In response to the current blueberry recall, the FDA has not yet reported any confirmed illnesses. However, due to the seriousness of Class I designations, health officials urge consumers to avoid consuming any affected product. Because the blueberries were delivered to a single customer, controlling further distribution remains a concern.
Officials have not disclosed if the North Carolina recipient supplied the blueberries to supermarkets, restaurants, or other retailers. People who suspect they may have purchased affected blueberries should contact their grocer, especially those in the southeastern region.
Consumers experiencing symptoms consistent with listeriosis are strongly encouraged to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are critical to preventing severe outcomes, especially for high-risk individuals.
