# FDA Upgrades Publix Frozen Berry Recall to Class I Risk Level

> The FDA has elevated the recall of GreenWise frozen berries sold at Publix to a Class I status due to potential E. coli contamination.

- Published: 2026-08-21T08:00:31.851Z
- Category: health
- Source: [Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/fda-upgrades-publix-frozen-blueberry-recall-highest-risk-level)
- Canonical URL: https://manypress.com/article/fda-upgrades-publix-frozen-berry-recall-to-class-i-risk-level
- Publisher: ManyPress (https://manypress.com). When citing, link the canonical URL.

---

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) upgraded the recall of GreenWise Organic Whole Blueberries and Whole Mixed Berries sold at Publix supermarkets to a Class I recall on August 18. This designation represents the highest level of health risk, indicating a reasonable probability that consuming the products could lead to serious adverse health consequences or death.

### Key numbers

- **12** — reported cases of E. coli
- **4** — hospitalizations linked to the berries

**Why it matters:** The Class I designation signifies a high risk of severe health outcomes, including potential death, for consumers. With 12 reported cases and 4 hospitalizations already linked to the contaminated berries, the recall serves as a critical safety measure to prevent further infections across the entire Publix retail network.

## Recall Background and Scope

The recall affects all Publix locations across the United States. It follows an initial recall issued by Publix on July 29, which was preceded by a July 3 recall of GreenWise Organic Blueberries sourced from Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. in San Carlos, Chile. The products were recalled due to potential E. coli contamination.

## Health Risks and Recommendations

As of July 30, the CDC reported 12 cases of E. coli linked to the berries, resulting in 4 hospitalizations. While most individuals recover from E. coli within 5 to 7 days, some may experience severe kidney complications. Medical experts advise that young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of serious illness. Consumers are urged to discard the recalled products or return them to Publix for a full refund. The FDA and health officials recommend washing any surfaces that contacted the berries with hot, soapy water and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, or bloody stool occur after consumption.

### Timeline

- **July 3** — GreenWise Organic Blueberries from a Chilean supplier were recalled.
- **July 29** — Publix issued an initial recall for the frozen berry products.
- **July 30** — The CDC reported 12 E. coli cases and 4 hospitalizations.
- **August 18** — The FDA upgraded the recall to Class I status.

**Key points**

- The Class I recall status was officially assigned by the FDA on August 18.
- The CDC reported 12 E. coli cases and 4 hospitalizations associated with the berries as of July 30.
- The recall applies to all Publix supermarkets throughout the United States.
- Consumers are advised to discard the products or return them to Publix for a full refund.
- Symptoms of E. coli typically manifest 3 to 4 days after ingestion.