Publix Expands Frozen Organic Berry Recall Across Eight Southeastern States Following E. Coli Outbreak
Lakeland, Saturday, 1 August 2026.
Publix expanded its private-label organic frozen berry recall across eight states after an E. coli outbreak sickened 12 people, hospitalizing four, highlighting critical supply chain vulnerabilities.
Expanded Recall Scope
Publix Super Markets expanded a recall of its private-label GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries and Whole Mixed Berries across eight southeastern states after federal regulators linked the products to an E. coli O145 outbreak [1]. The announcement on 2026-07-29 marked a significant widening of the initial safety action, encompassing all lots of the affected frozen fruit varieties [1][4]. This expansion underscores the severity of the contamination issue, which has prompted heightened regulatory scrutiny across the region [1].
Health Impact Analysis
Federal investigators have confirmed at least 12 illnesses linked to the consumption of the recalled berries, with four individuals requiring hospitalization [3][5]. The specific strain involved, E. coli O145:H28, is a Shiga toxin-producing variant capable of causing severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting [1][3]. High-risk groups, including young children and older adults, face elevated risks of developing hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious kidney complication [4][5].
Timeline of Contamination and Response
The regulatory timeline indicates that the supplier, Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., initiated an initial recall of a single lot of blueberries on 2026-07-03 [1][5]. Prior to this, Publix implemented an internal stop-sale on the affected products on 2026-06-30 as investigations began [1]. The decision to expand the recall to all lots was made on 2026-07-29 based on product traceback and epidemiological information from public health officials [4][5].
Supply Chain Origins
The contaminated products originated from Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., located in San Carlos, Chile [3][5]. Illnesses linked to the outbreak were reported between 2026-05-11 and 2026-06-05, suggesting the contamination occurred during the production or packaging phase prior to distribution [5]. This international supply chain connection highlights the complexities involved in tracking produce safety across borders [2][3].
Affected Products and Geographic Reach
The recall specifically targets 283.5 g (10-ounce) and 1.36 kg (48-ounce) packages of GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries and Whole Mixed Berries [1][3]. Specific Universal Product Codes (UPCs) identified include 41415-06453 and 41415-12053 for blueberries, and 41415-06753 and 41415-12153 for mixed berries [3][5]. Distribution was limited to Publix stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia [2][4].
Consumer Instructions
Consumers possessing these products in their freezers are advised not to consume them and should either discard the items or return them to the point of purchase for a full refund [3][5]. The FDA and state partners continue to investigate the contamination source to prevent further spread [2]. Products associated with this recall are no longer being sold in stores as of late June 2026 [4].
Corporate Response and Risk Management
Publix stated the expanded recall was conducted out of an abundance of caution to ensure customer safety [1][5]. Customers with concerns or questions are directed to contact Publix Customer Care at 800-242-1227 [1][5]. The company has not publicly disclosed whether specific illnesses were directly linked to products sold at specific locations beyond the general multistate correlation [1].
Operational Risks
This incident highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in frozen produce supply chains and underscores rising operational and legal risks for major grocery retailers managing private-label food safety protocols [1]. The situation serves as a reminder for retailers to maintain rigorous oversight of international suppliers to mitigate public health risks [2][4]. Continued monitoring by the FDA is expected as the investigation progresses [2].