Costco, Trader Joe’s, Aldi, and More Are Recalling Frozen Strawberries Due to Hepatitis A Concerns

An outbreak of Hepatitis A has caused a company manufacturing frozen fruits sold at Costco, Trader Joe’s, Aldi, and more to recall products containing frozen strawberries. The Scenic Fruit Company announced the recall in a notice shared by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration on Friday.

In the statement, Scenic Fruit Company revealed that they have not detected Hepatitis A on any of the products being recalled, but are urging consumers who may have purchased the affected items to avoid consuming them “out of an abundance of caution.”

“The company has ceased the production and distribution of the product as FDA and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem,” the statement reads. “All inventories of the affected lot should be removed from sale. Consumers who have purchased the products are urged to destroy or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.”

The products in question include frozen organic strawberries sold under the brand name Kirkland Signature at Costco stores in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, and Washington tate and have the UPC of 96619140404. The recall also includes Trader Joe’s Organic Tropical Fruit Blend Pineapple, Bananas, Strawberries & Mango carried in stores nationwide with the UPC of 00511919.

Additionally, Aldi, the Seattle-based PCC Community Markets, and food delivery service Vital Choice Seafood sold frozen strawberries from the Scenic Fruit Company under the brand names Vital Choice, PCC Community Markets, Made With, and Simply Nature.

According to the FDA’s website, it can take anywhere from 15 to 50 days before those infected with Hepatitis A begin exhibiting symptoms, which include fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, and abnormal liver tests. Illness, however, can be prevented if a vaccine is administered within two weeks of exposure.

“Persons who may have consumed affected product should consult with their health care professional or local health department to determine if a vaccination is appropriate,” the FDA suggests, “and consumers with symptoms of Hepatitis A should contact their health care professionals or the local health department immediately.”

If you’re concerned that you may have purchased any of the affected products during your last trip to the named stores, you can find a full list of the recalled product names and sell-by dates on the FDA website.

Wondering what other recalls and public health alerts have been issued lately from your favorite brands? Check out this page that’s updated regularly to stay in the know.