Frozen Fruits Recalled at Costco & Trader Joe’s Stores Because of Hepatitis B Outbreak
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An outbreak of Hepatitis B has caused several frozen fruit stores to recall their stock.
According to Friday’s announcement by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Scenic Fruit Company has recalled Costco, KeHE and Vital Choice Seafoods, as well its frozen organic tropical blend from Trader Joe’s, have frozen organic strawberries.
A report from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention shows that there have been no deaths. five documented cases of Hepatitis AAll of these incidents occurred in Washington state. Two people were hospitalized. No deaths were reported.
RELATED: Organic Strawberries Recalled After Being Potentially Linked to Hepatitis A Outbreak
According to the report, the outbreaks occurred sometime between November 24, and December of last Year. Five patients reported that they had eaten frozen organic strawberries.
The CDC states that frozen fruit is the likely source of the outbreak and advises those who have purchased the product not to eat them.
According to the CDC, hepatitis A can be a contagious liver infection caused primarily by the same virus. Symptoms vary in severity. The company announced that a vaccine can be administered within two week of the exposure to the contaminated food.
Scenic Food Company stated in an announcement that “Hepatitis A hasn’t been detected on this product. Consumers should cease consuming it and return it to the local store for a full refund.”
According to the company, customers who have had contact with the product should consult a doctor “to determine if vaccination is necessary” and those suffering from Hepatitis A should seek immediate medical attention at their local health department.
According to the announcement, Oregon’s Scenic Food Company has recalled frozen organic strawberries that it sold to Simply Nature in the following states: Arizona and Arkansas, California, Illinois. Iowa, Michigan. Minnesota. Missouri. North Dakota, South Dakota, Ohio, Wisconsin.
The fruit was also recalled by Vital Choice, Kirkland Signature and Made With from Washington, Alaska and Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Utah.
Trader Joe’s stores across the country have been notified about the recall of organic tropical fruit mixtures from the company, including mango, bananas, strawberries, and strawberries.