Silke Jasso
Following an outbreak of Hepatitis A, frozen fruit products have been recalled from multiple stores across the United States. Scenic Fruit Company, revealed in a company announcement shared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has recalled its frozen organic strawberries from stores including Costco, Aldi, KeHE, Vital Choice Seafoods, and PCC Markets, as well as its frozen organic tropical blend from Trader Joe’s.
Videos by Rare
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a total of five documented cases of Hepatitis A, all located in the state of Washington, which resulted in two hospitalizations. There have been no fatalities recorded.
According to the report, the outbreak began between November 24th and December 2022, with all five patients reporting having consumed frozen organic strawberries. The CDC has identified the frozen fruit as the “likely source of this outbreak” and is advising customers who have purchased the product to throw them out.
Recall Alert
Hepatitis A is a liver infection that is caused by the Hepatitis A virus that is highly contagious. The severity of symptoms varies, but the CDC suggests that the disease can be prevented by administering a vaccine within two weeks of exposure to the contaminated food.
“Although Hepatitis A has not been detected on this product, out of an abundance of caution, consumers should stop consuming the product and return it to their local store for a refund,” Scenic Food Company said in a statement.
The company went on to advise its customers who may have consumed the fruit to consult with their health professional in order “to determine if a vaccination is appropriate.” They also urged people who are experiencing symptoms to seek immediate care from their local health department.
Scenic Food Company, based in Oregon, recalled its frozen organic strawberries sold to Simply Nature from a total of 12 states, including Arizona, Arkansas, California, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The fruit has also been recalled from Vital Choice, Kirkland Signature, Made With, and PCC Community Markets across Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Illinois, and Maryland.
The company’s organic tropical fruit blend has also been recalled from Trader Joe’s stores nationwide.
