### Urgent Recall: 12,000 Pounds of Organic Blueberries in North Carolina Due to Listeria Risk The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a **Class I recall** for approximately **12,000 pounds** of organic blueberries shipped to North Carolina, following concerns of potential **Listeria monocytogenes** contamination. This recall, which affects blueberries distributed by **Alma Pak International LLC**, has been classified as the highest risk level due to the serious health threats posed by Listeria, particularly to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Consumers are advised to check their purchases and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of infection, which can include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues [https://abc11.com/post/recall-blueberries-shipped-north-carolina-upgraded-highest-level-due-listeria-concerns-sold-alma-pak-ga/16942193][https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/5384059-fda-blueberry-listeria-recall]. ### Breakdown of the Recall Situation 1. **Recall Details**: - The FDA has classified the recall as **Class I**, indicating a **reasonable probability** of serious health consequences or death [https://thisismoney.co.uk/health/article-14869925/fda-recall-blueberries-listeria-severe-risk.html]. - The recall involves **400 boxes** of blueberries, each weighing **30 pounds**, totaling **12,000 pounds** [https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/fda-issues-highest-level-recall-for-alma-pak-organic-blueberries-over-listeria-contamination/articleshow/122215766.cms]. 2. **Health Risks**: - Listeria infection can lead to severe illness, particularly in high-risk groups [https://www.merca20.com/fda-raises-health-alert-over-contaminated-blueberries-heres-what-we-know]. - Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress, which can escalate to more severe invasive illnesses [https://ca.news.yahoo.com/blueberry-recall-elevated-highest-level-151953122.html]. 3. **Consumer Guidance**: - Consumers are urged to check the **lot numbers** and **best-before dates** of the blueberries they have purchased [https://blackstarnews.com/fresh-blueberries-recalled-in-24-states-over-listeria-contamination]. - Those experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention promptly [https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/fdas-blueberry-recall-listeria-gets-highest-risk-level-what-dangers-should-you-aware-1737347]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Recall Classification**: The FDA's **Class I recall** signifies the highest level of risk, indicating a serious threat to health [https://komonews.com/news/nation-world/fda-recalls-12000-pounds-of-blueberries-over-listeria-risks-class-i-alma-pak-international-atlanta-georgia-high-risk-north-carolina-customer-food-consumer]. - **Volume of Affected Product**: The recall affects **12,000 pounds** of blueberries, emphasizing the scale of the potential health risk [https://uk.news.yahoo.com/12-000-pounds-blueberries-recalled-161106128.html]. - **Health Impact**: Listeria can cause severe health issues, particularly in vulnerable populations, with the potential for serious complications or death [https://www.newsweek.com/blueberry-recall-listeria-contamination-fda-highest-risk-warning-alma-pak-international-2093502]. ### Conclusion: Key Takeaways from the Blueberry Recall 1. **Immediate Action Required**: The FDA has issued a **Class I recall** for **12,000 pounds** of organic blueberries due to Listeria contamination risks. 2. **Health Risks**: Listeria poses a significant health threat, especially to vulnerable groups, necessitating consumer vigilance. 3. **Consumer Responsibility**: Individuals should check their blueberry purchases and monitor for symptoms, seeking medical help if necessary. This situation underscores the importance of food safety and consumer awareness in preventing potential health risks associated with contaminated food products [https://www.greenmatters.com/food/blueberry-recall-2025].