Across the US Packs of Frozen Strawberries are Recalled Virus By The FDA Due to Contagious Virus

According to a news release by the FDA, a recall of frozen strawberries was expanded this week due to a possible hepatitis A contamination.

According to the FDA notice, the Oregon-based Willamette Valley Fruit Company announced on Monday the recall of frozen strawberries sold at Walmart, Costco, and HEB under the brands Rader Farms Organic at Costco and HEB, and Great Value at Walmart. The agency added that Mexico was where the strawberries were grown.

The FDA notice also stated that Walmart stores across the country sold Great Value strawberries, while Costco stores in Colorado, Texas, Arizona, and California sold the affected products between October 3, 2022, and June 8, 2023. On the FDA's recall website, you can find a list of products, their lot numbers, and when they should be used up.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease that can "range from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious illness lasting several months." According to officials, contaminated food is a frequent vector for the virus.

Officials also stated that hepatitis A occurs between 15 and 50 days after exposure. Jaundice, a yellowing of the eyes and skin, pale stools, abnormal liver tests, abdominal pain, fatigue, and dark urine are some of the symptoms.

The FDA stated that individuals who may have consumed affected products should consult with their health care professional or local health department to determine if a vaccination is appropriate, and consumers with symptoms of Hepatitis A should contact their health care professionals or the local health department immediately. In rare cases, particularly consumers who have a pre-existing severe illness or are immune compromised, hepatitis A infection can progress to liver failure. However, the notice stated that the recalled strawberries have not yet been linked to any illnesses.

Customers were urged not to consume the frozen strawberries by the FDA. The agency stated, "Consumers are urged to check their freezers for the recalled product, not to consume it, and either return the product to the store for a refund or discard it."

Five cases of hepatitis A were linked to strawberries imported from Baja California, Mexico, according to a March report from an FDA investigation. According to the FDA, the strain of hepatitis A that was present in the cases was identical to the strain that led to an outbreak of infections in 2022.

The FDA reported that Wawona Frozen Foods, California Splendour, and Scenic Fruit recalled frozen strawberries sold under a variety of brands in March. These brands included PCC Community Markets, Trader Joe's, Kirkland Signature, Simply Nature, Vital Choice, and Made With.