FDA Human Foods Program
The following is an update from FDA of concern to our subscribers.
Outbreak Investigation of E. coli: Frozen Blueberries
Do not eat, sell or serve recalled frozen organic blueberries. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.
July 6, 2026
The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating illnesses in a multistate outbreak of E. coli O145:H28 infections linked to frozen GreenWise-brand organic blueberries recalled by Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A, of San Carlos, Chile.
On July 1, 2026, the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) notified CDC partners about an ongoing investigation into a cluster of E. coli O145 illnesses. Based on interviews with sick people, frozen GreenWise-brand organic blueberries sold at Publix were identified as the leading food item of interest in this outbreak. Florida state partners shared their findings with Publix Headquarters and, in response, Publix immediately conducted an internal stop sale of frozen GreenWise-brand organic blueberries at their stores.
Based on epidemiological information collected by CDC and FDOH state partners, a total of twelve people infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli have been reported from two states. Illnesses started on dates ranging from May 11, 2026, to June 5, 2026. Seven of 9 (78%) cases interviewed reported eating frozen blueberries. Of these cases, 5 specified frozen GreenWise-brand organic blueberries purchased from Publix. There have been four hospitalizations, and no deaths have been reported.
In response to this investigation, on July 3, 2026, Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., of San Carlos, Chile recalled frozen GreenWise-brand organic blueberries, sold in 10-oz packages with a printed lot code of 60401 and Best by Date of February 9, 2028. The recalled product was shipped to Publix retail stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Consumers should check their freezers for the recalled product and should not consume it. The product should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase.
FDA and state partners are actively working to determine the source of contamination. Additional products may be added to this advisory as the investigation continues. This advisory will be updated as new information becomes available.
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