On July 1, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) escalated a recall of 12,000 pounds of organic blueberries in North Carolina to a Class I status, its highest risk level, due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This serious health alert, stemming from routine testing by Alma Pak International LLC, a Georgia-based company, affects 400 boxes of organic blueberries shipped to a single customer in the state. Here’s what North Carolina residents need to know about this critical recall, its risks, and how to stay safe.

Details of the Blueberry Recall

The recall, initiated on June 9, 2025, involves 400 boxes, each weighing 30 pounds, of organic blueberries produced by Alma Pak International LLC in Atlanta, Georgia. The affected batches carry lot numbers 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096. According to the FDA, these blueberries were shipped exclusively to one customer in North Carolina, though it remains unclear whether the recipient was a retailer, distributor, restaurant, or individual. Fortunately, reports indicate the contaminated blueberries did not reach retail shelves, reducing the risk to consumers.

The FDA’s Class I designation signifies a “reasonable probability” that consuming the affected product could lead to severe health consequences or death, particularly for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Alma Pak International confirmed that post-recall tests showed no further listeria presence, and the company has implemented enhanced food safety measures in coordination with the FDA and the Georgia Department of Agriculture.

What is Listeria and Why is it Dangerous?

Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a severe infection that may lead to symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea, and, in extreme cases, meningitis or death. Pregnant women face heightened risks, including miscarriages or stillbirths. According to the CDC, listeria causes approximately 1,600 illnesses and 260 deaths annually in the U.S., with recent food recalls highlighting its growing prevalence in produce and processed foods.

Consumers who may have purchased or come into contact with the recalled blueberries are urged to check for the lot numbers 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096 and dispose of the product immediately or return it for a refund. For further inquiries, contact the FDA at 1-888-463-6332.

How to Safely Handle Blueberries

Amid this recall, experts emphasize proper blueberry handling to minimize health risks. Washing blueberries under running water alone may not remove harmful bacteria like listeria or pesticides. Instead, experts recommend soaking blueberries in a solution of one teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in two cups of cold water for 5–10 minutes, followed by a thorough rinse with cold water. This method helps eliminate contaminants more effectively.

Why This Recall Matters

This blueberry recall is part of a broader wave of food safety alerts in 2025, with the FDA reporting 69 food recalls from January to May alone, contributing to approximately 48 million annual foodborne illnesses in the U.S. Recent recalls involving shrimp, pasta, and cheese underscore the ongoing challenge of listeria contamination in the food supply chain. North Carolina residents, particularly those planning to use blueberries in holiday dishes or restaurant menus, should remain vigilant and verify the safety of their produce.

Alma Pak International, no stranger to recalls, faced a similar issue in 2019 with frozen berries potentially contaminated with norovirus. The current recall has prompted local restaurants and cafes to inspect their berry supplies, with some temporarily removing blueberry-based dishes or substituting other fruits.

Stay Safe and Informed with clickusanews

North Carolina residents are advised to stay cautious and check their blueberry supplies for the affected lot numbers. For the latest updates on this recall and other critical news, trust clickusanews to deliver timely, accurate information. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for real-time alerts on food safety, health risks, and more.