Chilean Supplier’s Third Berry Recall Hits 56 States Over E. coli

Key points

• Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. initiated the latest recall on October 2, 2026, expanding the scope to include Great Value and Trader Joe's organic berry blends.
• The recall covers 30 states for Walmart and 26 states plus D.C. for Trader Joe's, totaling 56 states and Puerto Rico.
• Affected products include Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend, Great Value Organic Blueberries, and Trader Joe's Organic Mixed Berry Blend, with best-by dates extending into 2028.
• The recall is linked to E. coli O145, a strain that can cause severe illness, including hemolytic uremic syndrome, particularly in children and the elderly.
• This is the third expansion of the recall this year, following initial actions in July and September, with the CDC previously declaring the outbreak 'over' in September.

Background

This recall follows two previous expansions earlier in 2026. The initial recall in July involved GreenWise-brand frozen organic blueberries sold at Publix. A September expansion included additional Walmart products. The CDC declared the outbreak 'over' on September 21, 2026, after 17 illnesses and six hospitalizations were reported, but the supplier continued to issue related recalls.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and U.S. News & World Report emphasize the precautionary nature of the recall, noting it is based on traceback information linked to the July recall. USA Today highlights the potential for the berries to still be in home freezers due to their long expiration dates. The Lexington Herald Leader provides additional context on the symptoms of E. coli and Salmonella, though the latter is not directly linked to this recall. All sources agree on the affected products and the need for consumers to discard or return them.

Why it matters

The expansion of the recall to 56 states and Puerto Rico underscores the widespread distribution of the affected products. The potential for E. coli contamination poses a significant health risk, particularly to vulnerable populations. Consumers are advised to check their freezers for the specific lot codes and best-by dates to ensure they do not consume the recalled products.

What to watch

Consumers should discard or return the affected products for a full refund. Retailers are advised to stop distributing and selling the recalled items. The FDA and CDC will continue to monitor the situation, and consumers should consult their healthcare providers if they experience symptoms resembling an E. coli infection.