Frozen Blueberries Sold at Publix Linked to an E. Coli Outbreak
The berries, shipped to stores in eight states, have been recalled
GreenWise organic frozen blueberries, produced by Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. in San Carlos, Chile, have been linked to an outbreak of illnesses caused by the bacteria E. coli O145:H28, according to the Food and Drug Administration. The blueberries were sold in 10-ounce packages at Publix stores in eight states and have been recalled.
The Risks of E. Coli
E. coli O145:H28 is a variant of the bacteria that produces Shiga toxin. This toxin can harm the intestines, often causing painful, bloody diarrhea and, in 5 to 10 percent of cases, potentially fatal kidney damage, says James E. Rogers, PhD, director of food safety at Consumer Reports.
The intestinal symptoms can start three to five days after exposure and begin to improve after about a week. But it’s at this stage that signs of kidney damage may occur. Symptoms of kidney damage include decreased urination, extreme fatigue, and paleness in the cheeks and inside the lower eyelids. Seek immediate medical care if you experience these symptoms. Staying hydrated can lessen the chance of kidney damage.
