E. Coli Outbreak in Florida and Georgia Linked to Frozen Blueberries

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating illnesses in a multistate outbreak of E. coli O145:H28 infections linked to GreenWise frozen organic blueberries. The product was recalled by Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. of San Carlos, Chile.

The outbreak has sickened 12 and hospitalized four in two states: Florida and Georgia. No deaths have been reported. 

The recalled product was shipped to Publix retail stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia

On July 1, the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) notified CDC partners about an ongoing investigation into a cluster of E. coli illnesses. Based on interviews with sick people, frozen GreenWise organic blueberries sold at Publix were identified as the leading food item of interest. Florida state partners shared their findings with Publix, and the grocery chain immediately conducted an internal stop sale of the product at its stores.  

Illnesses started on dates ranging from May 11 to June 5. Seven of 9 (78%) cases interviewed reported eating frozen blueberries. Five specified GreenWise organic frozen blueberries purchased from Publix.

In response to the investigation, on July 3, Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. recalled GreenWise-brand frozen organic blueberries sold in 10-oz packages with a printed lot code of 60401 and best by date of Feb. 9, 2028.

FDA advised consumers to check their freezers for the recalled product, which should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase. 

The agency said it is working with state partners to determine the source of contamination. Additional information may be added to this advisory as the investigation continues.