Alma Pak International LLC has issued a voluntary recall of organic blueberries following the detection of Listeria monocytogenes in routine testing, prompting the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to upgrade the recall to Class I, its highest risk level. Though the affected berries were not believed to have reached consumer shelves, health officials are urging vigilance due to the potential severity of listeria infections.
The Recall at a Glance
The recall involves approximately 400 boxes—roughly 12,000 pounds—of bulk organic blueberries packed in 30-pound boxes. The berries were shipped to a single customer in North Carolina and carried lot numbers 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096.
The issue came to light on June 9, when internal quality checks detected Listeria monocytogenes in a sample. The FDA classified the case as Class I on July 1, citing a "reasonable probability" that consumption of the product could result in serious adverse health consequences or death.
Limited Distribution, Prompt Action
According to Alma Pak and regulators, all affected product was intercepted before reaching consumers, and there is no evidence that the blueberries entered retail distribution. However, the FDA's decision to escalate the recall underscores the potential danger of Listeria contamination, particularly in fresh produce.
"Out of an abundance of caution, we have initiated a voluntary recall and conducted a thorough inspection of our packing facility," said a spokesperson for Alma Pak. "No further contamination has been detected, and we have implemented enhanced environmental monitoring."
Understanding the Risk: What Is Listeria?
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a potentially fatal illness especially dangerous for:
Pregnant women and unborn children
Infants
Elderly individuals
People with weakened immune systems
While healthy individuals may experience only short-term symptoms—such as fever, muscle aches, and diarrhea—listeriosis can lead to septicemia, meningitis, or stillbirths in high-risk groups. According to CDC estimates, Listeria causes approximately 1,600 infections and 260 deaths annually in the United States.
What Consumers Should Do
Despite reassurances about the product’s limited reach, consumers and retailers are encouraged to check storage areas and supply chains for the affected lot numbers:
13325 G1060
13325 G1096
Any product matching these numbers should be discarded immediately or returned to the place of purchase. If someone suspects they have consumed contaminated berries and experiences symptoms such as fever, stiff neck, or confusion, they should seek medical attention and inform their healthcare provider of potential listeria exposure.
A Broader Reminder on Food Safety
This recall highlights the importance of routine testing and rapid intervention in food supply chains. While Alma Pak’s prompt action likely prevented wider exposure, the FDA’s classification serves as a reminder that even isolated contamination events warrant serious attention.
For more information, consumers can visit the FDA’s recall database or contact Alma Pak directly.
Editor’s Note: The Class I recall classification is reserved for the most serious food safety threats. Although this event appears contained, consumers and food industry stakeholders are reminded to remain alert and follow recall notices closely.
