Frozen Berries Recalled for Norovirus After FDA Testing Reveals Presence

Alma Pak of Alma, Georgia is recalling specific lots of product containing frozen blackberries (noted below) due to the potential of being contaminated with Norovirus. FDA testing of frozen blackberries was reported to have tested positive for Norovirus.

It appears that the recalls associated with viral contamination, in this case Norovirus, are triggered by FDA testing.  Hopefully, there is an investigation into how this contamination got there and with that, the types of controls that can be instituted.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/alma-pak-voluntarily-recalls-frozen-blackberries-due-possible-health-risk-norovirus
Alma Pak Voluntarily Recalls Frozen Blackberries Due to Possible Health Risk of Norovirus
Summary
Company Announcement Date: June 20, 2019
FDA Publish Date: June 20, 2019

Reason for Announcement: Norovirus
Company Name: Alma Pak
Brand Name: Great Value and Tipton Grove
Product Description: Frozen Blackberries and Frozen Mixed Berries

Company Announcement
Alma Pak of Alma, Georgia is recalling specific lots of product containing frozen blackberries (noted below) due to the potential of being contaminated with Norovirus. FDA testing of frozen blackberries was reported to have tested positive for Norovirus.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus. Consumption of product contaminated with Norovirus may cause acute onset of symptoms of gastroenteritis including severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Less common symptoms are low-grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. Although most symptoms end within 48 hours, the elderly, young children and immunocompromised persons may develop prolonged, or more severe symptoms.
Specific lot information is as follows:
Product  UPC Code  Retailer  Lot Number  Expiry Date Distributed to select stores in:
Distribution  Dates:
16 oz Great Value Frozen Blackberries
078742-431017 Walmart AP1555  AP1640 AP1655 1/25/2021 3/07/2021 4/08/2021
GA, FL, NC and SC 1/31-2019 – 5/31/2019
12 oz Tipton Grove Frozen Mixed Berries
051933-34784-7 Save-A-Lot  AP 1700 4/22/2021 4/23/2021 4/24/2021
FL, NC, NY, TN, WI 5/5/2019 –
5/15/2019

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this recall. Impacted retailers have removed these products from store shelves. The FDA and the company continue to investigate the source of the issue.
Consumers who have purchased the products are urged to destroy or urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Alma Pak at 1-866-965-3896, Monday – Friday, 8:00AM – 5:00PM EST.