Being a busy college student, frozen fruit is a massive staple in my freezer. It’s super easy to add to smoothies or oatmeal, and I don’t have to worry about it going bad if I forget that it’s sitting in my fridge. But this week I’m going to have to be extra careful when opening my freezer and reaching for the frozen strawberries.
What frozen fruit is being recalled?
Scenic Fruit Company recalled some of its frozen strawberry products after an outbreak of hepatitis A. According to a statement made by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, the recalled products were sold “to Costco, Aldi, KeHE, Vital Choice Seafood, PCC Community Markets, and frozen organic tropical blend sold to Trader Joe’s.” Specifically, the products below have been recalled:
Simply Nature Organic Strawberries
Vital Choice Organic Strawberries
Kirkland Signature Organic Strawberries
Made With Organic Strawberries
PCC Community Markets Organic Strawberries
Trader Joe’s Organic Tropical Fruit Blend
Have there been any reports of illness from the frozen fruit recall?
In a Food Safety Alert, the Centers for Disease Control reports that as of March 13, 2023, there have been five cases associated with the frozen fruit recall, all in Washington state. Two of these five have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported. According to the FDA, “Illness occurs within 15 to 50 days of exposure and includes fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, abnormal liver tests, dark urine, and pale stool. Hepatitis A vaccination can prevent illness if given within two weeks of exposure to a contaminated food.”
What do I do if I bought the recalled frozen fruit?
The FDA and CDC are asking customers who may have already consumed the contaminated product to consult with their physician for next steps, especially if they’re concerned they’re experiencing symptoms. If you’ve purchased one of the products listed above, the FDA is recommending it be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund. Any additional questions about the frozen fruit recall can be directed to the company at customer.service@scenicfruit.com.