Dole Announces a Recall of Fresh Blueberries for Potential Parasite Contamination
Dole has issued a precautionary recall of some of its fresh blueberries for potential Cyclospora contamination. This action was taken after a package of Dole Fresh Blueberries tested positive for Cyclospora in a random sample collected by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Although no related illnesses have been reported yet, Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause an intestinal infection accompanied by severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, body aches, and fatigue.
The impacted blueberries were distributed in four US states (IL, ME, NY, and WI), and two Canadian provinces (Alberta and British Columbia). They’re packaged in a variety of clamshell sizes with UPC codes of 0 71430 01154 6, 0 71430 01151 5, 0 71430 01150 8, and 0 71430 01155 3.
Only blueberries with those UPC numbers and following lot codes are affected: 146332, 14732, 15032, 15046, 15132, 15148, 15146, 15232, 15332, 15446, 15432, 15646, 15648, 15848, and 15846. You can find this number printed on the clamshell lid, as shown above.
If you have these berries in your possession, you’re advised not to consume them and you should discard them immediately. For more information, visit www.dole.com or call the company’s toll-free number 24 hours a day at 800-356-3111.
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People become infected with Cyclospora by ingesting sporulated oocysts, which are the infective form of the parasite. This most commonly occurs when food or water contaminated with feces is consumed. And this seems to be happening with greater frequency.
Thanks, does washing them help at all?
Washing will reduce but not completely eliminate the risk of food poisoning from bacteria or parasites.
I always wash my produce well with a vinegar and salt bath. In my mind, it helps us stay safer from gross things but honestly who knows.
I’m not sure if this helps but I’d suggest buying local if possible.
This you would expect if from China, Or Mexico, but Canada?