The Frozen Strawberry Recall Has Been Expanded
The Willamette Valley Fruit Co. of Salem, Oregon, has issued a voluntary recall of some frozen fruit sold at Walmart, H-E-B, and Costco, reports the FDA. The recall affects frozen fruit containing strawberries grown in Mexico that may have been contaminated with the hepatitis A virus.
It specifically targets frozen fruit products, including Sliced Strawberries, Mixed Fruit, and the Antioxidant Fruit Blend, sold under Walmart's exclusive Great Value brand between January 24, 2023 and June 8, 2023 at locations in 32 states. Other products subject to the recall include Rader Farms Organic Fresh Start Smoothie Blend sold at Costco Wholesale stores in Colorado, Texas, California, and Arizona between October 3, 2022 and June 8, 2023 and Rader Farms Organic Berry Trio at H-E-B stores in Texas between July 18, 2022 and June 8, 2023.
The affected products have best-buy dates that go into 2023 and 2024. If you are concerned you may have purchased one of these, you can refer to the FDA website for the complete list of lot numbers.
An ongoing investigation
The most recent announcement is part of an ongoing spate of frozen produce recalls due to suspected hepatitis A contamination. Previously, the Willamette Valley Fruit Co. issued a voluntary recall in February for the same products, in addition to those under brand names Wawona, California Splendor, and Scenic Fruit.
In March, Meijer, a Michigan-based retailer, also rescinded its Made-With frozen organic strawberries, citing concerns about the spread of hepatitis A. According to an FDA update on June 13, the investigation into the virus is ongoing and may lead to additional product recalls. So far, the FDA has traced the origin of the contaminated strawberries to those imported from Baja California, Mexico.
If customers confirm they bought of one of the affected products, they should throw it out or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. For additional information, visit the FDA's website or contact the Willamette Valley Fruit Co.