FDA Announces Recall of Frozen Fruit from Costco, Aldi, Trader Joe’s

On Friday, March 17, 2023, the FDA announced that Scenic Fruit Company has voluntarily recalled some of its frozen fruit sold at Aldi, Trader Joe’s, and Costco. This announcement was just one day behind a recall notice issued by California Splendor, another manufacturer of frozen fruit, for the same reason.

According to the CDC, recent data suggests an outbreak of hepatitis A (Hep A) infections is caused by frozen organic strawberries. The first of five cases was reported on November 24, 2022, and the most recent case was reported on December 27, 2022.

Hepatitis A is a contagious viral infection that can be contracted by ingesting the virus in food or drink and through close contact with an infected individual. Symptoms of Hep A include jaundice, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, dark urine, joint pain, diarrhea, or fatigue. Although not all patients will be symptomatic, adults and unvaccinated individuals are at the highest risk of severe symptoms.

Severe cases of Hep A may be fatal and cause liver failure and other chronic health conditions. However, vaccination can help minimize the risk of severe hep A. The CDC recommends that all children between one and two get vaccinated for hepatitis A with a two-dose series administered six months apart.  Additionally, adults at high risk of hepatitis A should also get vaccinated.

The most recent update states that all the infected patients had consumed frozen organic strawberries before falling ill. While the condition has not been fatal in any patients, two cases led to hospitalization.

The California Splendor recall applies to Kirkland Signature four-pound bags of Frozen Organic Whole Strawberries. These recalls are predominantly on products sold in Los Angeles, Hawaii, and San Diego.

The Scenic Fruit Recall applies to Simply Nature, Vital Choice, Kirkland Signature, Made With, and PCC Community Markets organic strawberries. Additionally, Trader Joe’s Organic Tropical Fruit Blend has also been recalled. These products have been distributed nationally; however, some states, including Washington, have had multiple affected products.

The FDA advises consumers to check the batch numbers of the affected products and return the product to the appropriate location, depending on the brand. Patients are also advised to monitor and report any symptoms to their healthcare provider.