The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has upgraded its recall warning for organic blueberries due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, one of the deadliest foodborne pathogens. The recall, initiated by Alma Pak International LLC on June 9, involves approximately 400 boxes, totaling 12,000 pounds of berries shipped to a single North Carolina customer. It has now received the FDA’s Class I classification, signifying the highest risk level where consumption may result in serious harm or death.
What Is Listeria?
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can thrive in refrigeration, making it a persistent risk in cold-stored foods such as berries, cheese, and deli meats. According to the FDA, past outbreaks have shown the pathogen’s capacity to cause severe illness, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that listeriosis—what is listeria—can trigger mild symptoms like fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In high-risk groups, it may escalate to headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.
The bacterium’s ability to grow at refrigerated temperatures makes it particularly dangerous in “fresh” foods stored long-term. As Purdue University food science expert Haley F. Oliver explains, “Listeria monocytogenes is a common microorganism… in most instances, an immunocompromised person… must eat contaminated food.”
Blueberry Recall Update
Here are the essential details consumers must know in this blueberry recall update:
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Product: Organic blueberries from Alma Pak International LLC
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Quantity: Approximately 400 boxes (30 lbs each; total ≈12,000 lbs)
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Lot Numbers: 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096
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Distribution: Shipped to a single North Carolina customer; further distribution remains unclear
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Reason for Recall: Positive test results for Listeria monocytogenes during routine quality testing
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Recall Status: Ongoing; consumers should avoid consuming or serving the affected blueberries
A Class I recall indicates there is a “reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.” This is the FDA’s most urgent classification, highlighting the severity of potential harm. Mid-2025 has already seen an alarming rise in recalls linked to dangerous pathogens, making vigilance more critical than ever.
Symptoms of Listeriosis & Who Is Most Vulnerable
Symptoms typically appear within one to three days of infection: fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. More severe cases—particularly affecting newborns, adults over 65, pregnant individuals, and immunocompromised persons—could experience headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of coordination, and seizures. Health experts at the University of Michigan Medical School warn that listeriosis may spread to the brain, causing meningitis-like conditions.
The FDA urges anyone experiencing these symptoms after consuming the recalled blueberries to seek medical attention immediately.
Guidance for Consumers
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Do not consume or serve any blueberries labeled with lot numbers 13325 G1060 or 13325 G1096.
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Check packaging thoroughly if you’ve purchased biomass blueberries recently.
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Return or dispose of the berries properly and seek refunds where applicable.
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Wash and sanitize any utensils, dishes, and surfaces the berries may have touched to prevent cross-contamination.
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Monitor health symptoms and contact healthcare providers if signs of listeriosis appear.
This recall follows a trend of alarming Listeria recalls in 2024–2025, affecting products like cheese, shrimp, and pasta. The surge reflects increased detection efforts and a stronger regulatory response. Listeria monocytogenes remains the third leading cause of death among foodborne pathogens in the U.S.
The FDA blueberry recall, now classified as Class I, is a serious risks posed by Listeria monocytogenes. This blueberry recall update affects 400 large boxes of organic blueberries distributed in North Carolina. Consumers should treat any berries with the specified lot numbers as unsafe, follow disposal guidelines, sanitize kitchenware, and monitor for symptoms—especially if part of a vulnerable group.
Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and follow the recommended actions to ensure their safety. The FDA’s ongoing oversight aims to prevent further public health risks related to this incident.
Stay informed on recall alerts to protect your health and that of your loved ones. For more updates on food safety and recall warnings, subscribe to FDA alerts and consult your local health department.
