### Urgent Health Alert: Deadly Listeria Contamination Linked to Organic Blueberries The FDA has issued a serious warning regarding a recall of organic blueberries due to potential Listeria contamination. Alma Pak International LLC has recalled approximately 12,000 pounds of these blueberries, which were shipped to North Carolina. The situation escalated to a Class I recall, indicating a high risk of severe health consequences, including death, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Consumers are urged to check their purchases and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of Listeria infection, which can include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues [https://www.delish.com/food-news/a65334852/organic-blueberry-recall-deadly, https://abc11.com/post/recall-blueberries-shipped-north-carolina-upgraded-highest-level-due-listeria-concerns-sold-alma-pak-ga/16942193]. ### Breakdown of the Blueberry Recall Situation 1. **Recall Details**: - Alma Pak International LLC recalled 12,000 pounds of organic blueberries due to Listeria concerns. - The recall was classified as Class I, the highest risk level, indicating a reasonable probability of serious health risks [https://www.businessupturn.com/usa/alma-pak-blueberry-recall-everything-you-need-to-know-about-listeria/79826, https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/2076791/recall-blueberries-US-vomiting-listeria]. 2. **Health Risks**: - Listeria monocytogenes can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable populations. - Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress, which can escalate to more severe conditions [https://www.mensjournal.com/news/blueberries-blueberry-major-recall-for-listeria-after-fda-announcement, https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/blueberry-recall-listeria-fda-alma-pak-international-b2781514.html]. 3. **Consumer Guidance**: - Consumers are advised to check their blueberry purchases for the affected batches and to discard any products that may be contaminated. - Medical attention should be sought if symptoms arise [https://www.thehill.com/policy/healthcare/5384059-fda-blueberry-listeria-recall, https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/fdas-blueberry-recall-listeria-gets-highest-risk-level-what-dangers-should-you-aware-1737347]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Recall Statistics**: - **Total Weight of Blueberries Recalled**: 12,000 pounds - **Number of Boxes Affected**: 400 boxes, each weighing 30 pounds [https://www.wbtv.com/2025/07/04/recall-blueberries-shipped-north-carolina-upgraded-highest-level/?outputType=apps, https://www.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/fda-issues-highest-level-recall-for-alma-pak-organic-blueberries-over-listeria-contamination/articleshow/122215766.cms]. - **Health Impact**: - Listeria infections can lead to severe complications, especially in pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems [https://www.merca20.com/fda-raises-health-alert-over-contaminated-blueberries-heres-what-we-know, https://www.blackstarnews.com/fresh-blueberries-recalled-in-24-states-over-listeria-contamination]. ### Conclusion: Immediate Action Required for Consumer Safety In summary, the FDA has escalated the recall of organic blueberries from Alma Pak International LLC to the highest risk level due to Listeria contamination. This situation poses a significant health threat, particularly to vulnerable populations. 1. **Immediate Recall**: 12,000 pounds of blueberries recalled due to contamination risks. 2. **Health Risks**: Listeria can cause severe illness or death, especially in at-risk groups. 3. **Consumer Action**: Check for affected products and seek medical help if symptoms occur. Consumers must remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety [https://www.newsweek.com/blueberry-recall-listeria-contamination-fda-highest-risk-warning-alma-pak-international-2093502, https://uk.news.yahoo.com/12-000-pounds-blueberries-recalled-161106128.html].