Multistate E. coli Outbreak Linked to Recalled GreenWise Frozen Blueberries Sold at Publix
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have launched a joint investigation into a multistate outbreak of Escherichia coli O145:H28 infections. The outbreak has been epidemiologically linked to GreenWise Organic IQF Frozen Blueberries (10 oz), a store-brand product sold at Publix supermarkets across eight southeastern states.
On July 3, 2026, the importer, Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. of San Carlos, Chile, initiated a voluntary recall of the affected lot after reports of consumer illnesses.
"There have been reports of 12 confirmed cases of consumers experiencing stomach illness between May 11, 2026 and June 5, 2026 linked with E. coli O145:H28 infections." — Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. Initiates Recall of Frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries
Outbreak Details and Recall Scope
- The Pathogen: E. coli O145:H28 is a Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) strain. STEC infections cause severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. A dangerous potential complication is Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure that primarily threatens young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
- Case Count: As of the recall date, 12 confirmed cases of STEC infection have been reported, with illnesses onsetting between May 11 and June 5, 2026. The CDC has confirmed that at least four individuals have been hospitalized.
- Distribution & Recall Identification: The recalled blueberries were shipped to Publix stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The specific recalled product is:
- Product: Frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries (10 oz)
- Lot Code: 60401
- Best By Date: February 9, 2028
Consumers are urged to inspect their freezers immediately, discard any matching product, or return it to Publix for a full refund. The FDA's traceback and facility investigations are ongoing to determine the source of contamination in Chile.