E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Frozen Blueberries Prompts Multistate Recalls

A multistate outbreak of E. coli O145:H28 infections has been traced to organic frozen blueberries, resulting in product recalls and hospitalizations across several U.S. states.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration reported that, as of September 3, 2026, a total of 17 individuals were confirmed to have been infected with the outbreak strain. Illnesses were documented with onset dates ranging from May 11 to August 2, 2026, and cases were reported in two states.

Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., based in San Carlos, Chile, initiated a recall on July 3, 2026, for a specific lot of frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries sold at Publix stores in eight states. Later, Publix expanded the recall on July 29, 2026, to include all lots of GreenWise Organic Frozen Whole Blueberries and Whole Mixed Berries sold in the same states.

The recall was further broadened on September 2, 2026, to include one lot of Great Value-brand Frozen Organic Triple Berry Blend distributed at Walmart locations in 16 states. The affected products were ultimately distributed to a total of 19 states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

What the numbers show

• Seventeen confirmed E. coli cases as of September 3, 2026.
• Six individuals hospitalized; no deaths reported.
• Recalls affected products sold in 19 U.S. states.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a media alert on July 7, 2026, stating that 12 people in two states had become ill from the same E. coli strain linked to frozen blueberries. Earlier data showed that, as of July 6, 2026, twelve confirmed cases had been reported, with four hospitalizations and no deaths at that time.

Symptoms of E. coli infection can appear between a few days and nine days after consuming contaminated food. These symptoms may include stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting, and in some cases, infection can result in more serious conditions such as kidney failure.

The outbreak prompted multiple recalls by both the original supplier and retailers, with the scope of affected products expanding as more information became available. The recalls included specific lot codes and best-by dates to help consumers identify the impacted items.

Health authorities and food safety agencies continued to monitor the situation, providing updates and guidance as new cases and product information emerged. The recalls and public alerts aimed to reduce further exposure and prevent additional illnesses linked to the contaminated frozen berries.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.