Publix recalls frozen blueberries over E.coli risk
Publix is recalling a lot of Frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries following 12 confirmed cases of E.coli (Escherichia coli O145:H28) reported between May 11 and June 5, 2026.
In a press release, the retailer explained that it made the call after Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. (San Carlos, Chile) recalled the product due to the potential presence of the bacteria.
The decision affects stores in eight states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, and involves products with the following details:
- Product: Frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries
- Package Size: 10 oz
- Lot Code: 60401
- Best By Date: February 9, 2028
Image via Instacart.
The CDC and FDA join the investigation
In an update shared online on July 6, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said they were notified of the multi-state cluster of E.coli cases, which they're currently investigating.
The government agencies confirmed the 12 reported cases, the first of which was notified by the Florida Department of Health.
"Seven of nine (78 percent) cases interviewed reported eating frozen blueberries. Of which, five specified GreenWise- brand organic frozen blueberries were purchased from Publix. There have been four hospitalizations, and no deaths have been reported," the update reads.
Both the CDC and the FDA urged consumers to check their freezers for the recalled product. They were adamant that the frozen blueberries should not be consumed and instead should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase.
The agencies didn't discard the possibility that additional products may be added to this advisory as the investigation continues. Updates will be posted as new information becomes available.
Only one lot affected by the recall
Even though Publix says there's only one lot affected by the recall, the retailer is advising customers to return or discard any frozen GreenWise blueberry products bought by or before July 3, 2026. All returns, the company says, will receive a full refund.
Although E. coli is present in the digestive systems of healthy humans and animals, some strains can cause infections that lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and overall stomach illness.
According to the Mayo Clinic, immunosuppressed individuals and high-risk populations, such as young children and older adults, may develop life-threatening infections.
Symptoms usually appear between three and four days after contact.
*All images are referential.
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