Cascade International Foods Inc. of Hillsboro, Oregon, is recalling more than 35,000 pounds of Fresh Organic Freezer Strawberries due to possible hepatitis A contamination.

Due to suspected Listeria monocytogenes contamination, frozen fruit products distributed to Walmart, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Target, Aldi, and AWG stores in over 30 states have been voluntarily recalled.

A multistate outbreak of hepatitis A infections is currently being investigated, and the FDA has identified additional brands of frozen strawberries that may be contaminated. Multiple products have been recalled.

As of June 13, the outbreak has sickened nine individuals in three states. Three individuals have been hospitalized due to severe illness. There have been no reported fatalities. Washington, Oregon, and California all have residents who are ill.

According to FDA’s published information, the recall began on May 25, 2023, and is ongoing.

Another supplier Sunrise Growers Inc., a subsidiary of SunOpta Inc, voluntarily recalled certain frozen fruit products containing pineapple from a third-party supplier, the company announced Wednesday in conjunction with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

In the recall notice, SunOpta and the FDA advised consumers to examine their freezers for the recalled product and to dispose of it or return it for a full refund.

What Listeria Can Do?

Listeria is a bacterium that can produce a severe infection known as listeriosis. It is prevalent in sediment, water, and a variety of animals, including livestock and poultry. Listeria can contaminate a wide variety of foods, especially those that are ingested raw or uncooked.

Listeriosis is a foodborne illness that predominantly affects expectant women, infants, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Variable symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle pain, nausea, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal distress.

In severe cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream and other organs, resulting in potentially fatal complications such as meningitis, septicemia, and mortality.

Unlike many other foodborne pathogens, Listeria can survive and flourish in refrigerated environments, which is one of its concerning characteristics. This quality makes it a persistent danger in a variety of ready-to-eat foods, including deli meats, soft cheeses, smoked seafood, and prepackaged salads.