A multistate outbreak of E. coli O145 infections linked to frozen GreenWise-brand organic blueberries has affected 12 people across Florida and Georgia, resulting in four hospitalizations and no deaths as of early July 2026. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are actively investigating the source of contamination in the recalled product, which was distributed to Publix retail stores across eight states.

Which Frozen Blueberries Are Being Recalled?

The recall specifically targets GreenWise-brand organic frozen blueberries sold in 10-ounce packages with lot code 60401 and a best-by date of February 9, 2028. The product was manufactured by Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., based in San Carlos, Chile, and distributed to Publix stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. However, the FDA notes that blueberries may have been distributed to other retailers as well, and the agency continues to update its advisory as new information emerges.

Illnesses linked to the outbreak began between May 11 and June 5, 2026. Of the nine cases where investigators could confirm food history, seven people reported eating frozen blueberries, and five specifically identified GreenWise-brand organic frozen blueberries purchased from Publix.

What Are the Symptoms of E. coli O145 Infection?

E. coli infections can develop anywhere from a few days after consuming contaminated food to up to nine days later. Symptoms typically include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting. While many infections resolve on their own, certain strains of pathogenic E. coli can cause severe complications. The most serious potential outcome is hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure that can develop after severe bloody diarrhea. Other long-term complications may include high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, and neurological problems.

If you consumed the recalled blueberries and develop any symptoms resembling an E. coli infection, the FDA recommends consulting your healthcare provider immediately for evaluation and care.

How to Protect Your Family During a Produce Recall

• Check Your Freezer: Search your freezer for GreenWise-brand organic frozen blueberries in 10-ounce packages with lot code 60401 and best-by date of February 9, 2028. If you find the recalled product, do not eat it. Discard it or return it to your place of purchase.
• Clean Surfaces Thoroughly: If the recalled blueberries touched any surfaces, containers, or utensils in your kitchen, carefully clean and sanitize them to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. Follow the FDA's safe handling and cleaning guidance for produce-related contamination.
• Be Cautious with Repackaged Products: If you purchased blueberries that were repackaged into smaller containers without the original packaging, and you cannot confirm whether they are part of the recall, discard them as a precaution.
• Notify Retailers and Foodservice Providers: If you operate a restaurant, grocery store, or foodservice business and received the recalled blueberries, do not sell them and remove them from inventory immediately. Retailers that repackaged the product for individual sale should also cease sales and remove it from the market.

The FDA and CDC are working with state and local health departments to determine how the contamination occurred and whether additional products may be affected. The investigation remains ongoing, and consumers should monitor official FDA advisories for updates.

This outbreak underscores the importance of traceability in the produce supply chain. When contamination is detected, the ability to quickly identify affected products and their distribution points can help prevent additional illnesses. Consumers who have questions about whether their frozen blueberries are part of the recall can contact their local health department or visit the FDA's website for the most current information.