On 2 July 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) upgraded the recall of organic blueberries by Alma Pak International LLC to Class I, the highest risk level, after Listeria monocytogenes was detected during routine testing. Initially issued on 9 June, the recall involves 400 boxes, each weighing 30 pounds, which were distributed to a single customer in North Carolina. The affected batches are marked with the lot numbers 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096. A Class I recall indicates a serious health risk with possible severe or fatal consequences. Listeria is one of the leading causes of death from foodborne illness in the United States. This case highlights a growing concern: nearly 300 food recalls were linked to over 1,400 illnesses in 2024 alone. This sharp increase compared to the previous year highlights the growing challenges of ensuring food safety.
Massimo Serresi
