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Organic Strawberries Recalled After Being Potentially Linked to Hepatitis A Outbreak

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Frozen fruit is a go-to for many households, providing an easy and convenient way to add fruits to our diet. However, recently, several stores across the country recalled frozen organic strawberries and tropical blends due to a potential outbreak of Hepatitis A. The Scenic Fruit Company, a manufacturer of frozen fruit, recalled its products from several stores, including Aldi, Costco, KeHE, Vital Choice Seafoods, PCC Markets, and Trader Joe’s.

Source: KTVB/Youtube

The announcement, shared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), stated that the company had recalled its frozen organic strawberries and tropical blend due to five confirmed cases of Hepatitis A, all in Washington state, resulting in two hospitalizations. Although no deaths have been reported, the CDC claims that the frozen fruit is the “likely source of this outbreak,” advising customers who purchased the product not to consume it.

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the virus of the same name. Symptoms of the disease range in severity, according to the CDC. However, the good news is that it can be prevented with a vaccine if administered within two weeks of exposure to the contaminated food. Scenic Food Company wrote in their announcement, “Although Hepatitis A has not been detected on this product, out of an abundance of caution, consumers should stop consuming the product and return it to their local store for a refund.”

If you think you have consumed the recalled frozen organic strawberries or tropical blend, consult with a health professional to determine if a vaccination is necessary. For those with symptoms of Hepatitis A, it’s important to seek immediate care from their local health department.

Scenic Food Company recalled its frozen organic strawberries sold to Simply Nature from the following states: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The fruit has also been recalled from Vital Choice, Kirkland Signature, Made With, and PCC Community Markets from Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Illinois, and Maryland.

Lastly, the company’s organic tropical fruit blend, pineapple, bananas, strawberries, and mango, have been recalled from Trader Joe’s stores nationwide.