Listeria risk outbreak: FDA elevates recall of 400 boxes of organic blueberries

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated the recent recall of organic blueberries to the most severe classification – Class I.

Originating from Alma Pak International LLC, based in Georgia, the voluntary recall on June 9 involved 400 boxes (each weighing 30 pounds) of organic blueberries after routine testing detected Listeria monocytogenes. These contaminated boxes, bearing lot numbers 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096, were distributed to a single customer in North Carolina.


The recall in detail: What you need to know

On June 9, 2025, Alma Pak International LLC initiated a voluntary recall involving 400 boxes (30 lbs each) of their organic blueberries after routine testing revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. Although shipments were sent to just one North Carolina customer, the FDA’s recent classification upgrade on July 1, 2025, to a Class I recall reflects the seriousness of the contamination, a category reserved for food products that could result in death or serious illness



Identifying the affected product

Company: Alma Pak International LLC (Georgia)

Recall Date: June 9, 2025

Boxes Recalled: 400

Weight per Box: 30 lbs

Lot Numbers: 13325 G1060, 13325 G1096

Distribution: One customer in North Carolina


Consumers and vendors are urged to inspect their inventories and immediately dispose of any blueberries matching these details.


What is a Listeria outbreak?

A listeria outbreak is a situation where two or more people get sick from eating food contaminated with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. This can happen when food is processed, prepared, or stored in unsanitary conditions. Listeria outbreaks are typically identified when multiple individuals experience similar illnesses after consuming the same potentially contaminated food.



Why is Listeria such a concern?

Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogenic bacterium that thrives in refrigerated environments, unlike many other foodborne pathogens. While healthy individuals might experience mild symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, nausea, or diarrhea, the infection can escalate to more severe conditions, such as meningitis, particularly in those over 65, pregnant individuals, newborns, or the immunocompromised. According to FDA data, listeriosis is the third-leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the US, responsible for approximately 260 deaths annually.


Listeriosis: Symptoms and prevention

Listeria can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Listeriosis symptoms can range from mild, like fever and diarrhea, to severe, including meningitis or sepsis, especially in vulnerable populations. Listeria can be transmitted through contaminated food, and outbreaks are often linked to ready-to-eat foods like deli meats, soft cheeses, and smoked seafood.

Proper food handling, including cooking to safe temperatures and avoiding high-risk foods, is crucial to prevent listeriosis.