Walmart and Trader Joe’s Frozen Berry Recall Expansion: What Shoppers Should Know

Frozen Berry Recall Expands to Major Retailers

A recall affecting frozen berries sold at major grocery chains has grown significantly once again. The Chilean supplier Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. announced an expansion of its recall on Friday to include specific frozen berry products distributed to both Walmart and Trader Joe’s stores across the United States. This marks the third expansion of a recall that began this past summer due to potential E. coli contamination in frozen fruit products.

The expanded recall now covers frozen organic mixed berry blends and other frozen berry items with specific lot codes and “best by” dates. According to the Food and Drug Administration, the recalled products reached Walmart locations in 30 states and Trader Joe’s locations in 26 states. Consumers who purchased these items should check their freezers and take appropriate action to protect their health and safety.

Timeline of the Outbreak and Previous Recalls

The E. coli outbreak connected to frozen berries began during the summer months and initially resulted in a recall of frozen blueberries at Publix Super Markets. The situation escalated when the contamination was also discovered in frozen mixed berries supplied to Walmart. The Chilean producer first issued a recall notice on July 3, followed by a second recall expansion on September 3.

Publix voluntarily expanded its recall on July 29 out of abundance of caution to include all lots of GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries and Whole Mixed Berries. The situation gained additional attention when a Florida resident filed a lawsuit against Publix and one of its distributors, Quirch Foods, after his wife died and his son became seriously ill from consuming recalled frozen blueberries.

Current Recall Details for Consumers

The latest recall affects three specific products with particular lot codes and expiration dates. Walmart’s Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend in 10-ounce packages with specific UPC and lot codes carries “best by” dates of January 31, 2028 and February 10, 2028. Walmart’s Great Value Organic Blueberries in 10-ounce packages with designated lot codes have “best by” dates ranging from January 19, 2028 through June 12, 2028.

Trader Joe’s Organic Mixed Berry Blend in 12-ounce packages with a specific UPC number and lot code has a “best by” date of February 20, 2028. Shoppers should examine any frozen berry products purchased from these retailers and verify the UPC numbers and lot codes against the recall information. If you have purchased any of these products, do not consume them and contact the retailer for refund or replacement options.

What This Means for Shoppers

Health officials confirmed that the outbreak was considered over on September 21 after 17 people were sickened, with six requiring hospitalization. The FDA determined that the latest recall expansion was a precautionary measure based on traceback information linked to the frozen blueberries that were part of the original July 3 recall. While the active outbreak appears to have concluded, the continued expansion reflects the thoroughness of safety investigations.

For consumers, this situation underscores the importance of checking product packaging before consuming frozen berries and other produce items. Keep receipts and product packaging that shows lot codes and dates purchased. If you believe you or a family member became ill from consuming these products, report it to your local health department and seek medical attention if symptoms develop. As Walmart addresses product concerns, the company and Trader Joe’s continue cooperating with federal health authorities.

How to Stay Informed and Protected

Going forward, shoppers should remain vigilant about product recalls affecting major retailers. Sign up for FDA recall alerts and follow updates from the Food and Drug Administration’s official website for comprehensive information about food safety issues. Check your local news sources and retailer communications for announcements regarding any additional recalls or safety concerns. When purchasing frozen berries, note the brand, lot code, and “best by” date for future reference.

If you have questions about whether a product in your home is affected by this recall, contact Walmart or Trader Joe’s customer service directly with your receipt and product information. Both retailers are prepared to offer refunds or replacements for recalled items. The investments retailers make in shopping efficiency ultimately support better inventory tracking and food safety protocols across their supply chains.

While frozen berry recalls represent a serious health concern, they also demonstrate how regulatory systems work to protect consumers. By staying informed and checking your pantry regularly, you can take control of your family’s health and safety when shopping at major retailers.