Dried Blueberries Are Being Recalled Nationwide Due to High Level of Lead Concerns

Nathan Hutsenpiller
Nathan Hutsenpiller
Nathan Hutsenpiller is a photographer and writer residing in Queens, NY. He specializes in portrait, street and skateboard photography while also pursuing a career in photojournalism. Some of Nathan's photos have been featured in the upcoming book "Heart" by Lucas Beaufort, celebrating 40 years of skateshop history.
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published Jul 19, 2022
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Fresh off the heels of a frozen pepperoni pizza, ice cream, and a Trader Joe’s salad recall, consumers have another thing to add to their lists: freeze-dried blueberries. BrandStorm Inc. has initiated a recall of its freeze-dried blueberries due to potential traces of lead that are above the FDA’s recommended limits — specifically, two lots of its Natierra Organic Freeze-Dried Blueberry pouches.

While the company is known for creating a number of dried fruits, it assures that the issue was limited to just two batches of its blueberries — which were distributed to stores nationwide as well as sold online. The investigation took place by the company’s packing site and was confirmed by lab testing in Maryland.

“After further investigation, it was found that the product’s country of origin is Lithuania and aggressive monitoring of heavy metals may be deemed necessary,” the parent company noted. The first batch affected featured a lot number of “2021363-1” with a best-by date of 12/2024 and UPC “812907011160,” while the second was listed with Lot “2022026-1,” a best-by date of “01/2025,” and UPC “812907011160.”

Though consumers are mostly aware of the dangers of lead in our bloodstream due to our experience with lead paint, highly exposed individuals can experience severe damage to the nervous system and internal organs — even if there are no symptoms shown.

The recall also notes that “acute lead poisoning may cause a wide variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and bloody or decreased urinary output. Children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning.”

For the safety of yourself and your family, it is strongly urged that you throw away any food affected by this recall or immediately return it to the store for a refund.