Publix recalls blueberries sold in Buncombe County stores over E. coli risk

Publix’s Frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries, sold in 10-ounce bags with lot code 60401 and a best-by date of February 9, 2028, are being recalled from North Carolina stores sold on or before July 3, 2026. Buncombe County shoppers who bought them should check their freezers now and return the fruit or throw it away.

The blueberries were distributed to Publix stores in eight states: North Carolina, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Check any frozen berries, mixed fruit containers or smoothie packs that may include the recalled bag and remove them from use immediately.

The FDA ties the recall to an outbreak of E. coli O145:H28 that has sickened 12 people, sent 4 to the hospital and caused no deaths. Illnesses ran from May 11, 2026 to June 5, 2026. The investigation is ongoing, and the blueberries may have reached retailers beyond Publix, broadening the risk for anyone who bought frozen organic blueberries and cannot confirm the source.

Some E. coli infections can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious kidney complication. Call a doctor promptly for severe stomach cramps, diarrhea that is bloody or lasts more than a few days, repeated vomiting, fever, or signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth or little urine. Seek urgent care if symptoms worsen quickly or if a child becomes unusually sleepy, weak or hard to wake.

Publix’s supplier, Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. of San Carlos, Chile, initiated the recall after reports of digestive illnesses among consumers and is working with regulators while investigating the source. Any bag from the recalled lot should not be eaten, served or sold, and any bowl, freezer drawer or container that touched the fruit should be washed and sanitized before more food goes near it.