Recall of blueberries in the US for possible lead poisoning

• Urgent recall alert issued for blueberries in the US that could contain elevated levels of lead.
• The FDA said the recall announced by BrandStorm Inc. involves Natierra organic freeze-dried blueberries.
• The fruit was sold in the United States through retail stores and online.

BrandStorm Inc. has issued a recall for two lots of Natierra freeze-dried blueberries that may contain elevated levels of lead. People who are regularly exposed to high levels of lead may be at risk of lead poisoning, reported BGR.

According to the company, Natierra frozen organic blueberries may contain lead levels above the limits recommended by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Recall of organic blueberries from Natierra

BrandStorm recently announced that it will voluntarily recall two bags of freeze-dried organic blueberries (Lot # 2021363-1 and 2022026-1) due to “the presence or potential presence of lead in excess of FDA recommended limits; based on the serving size specified on the nutrition facts panel,” the FDA reported in a Press release.

But what is the risk of being exposed to high levels of lead? According to the FDA, people with high blood lead levels may not show symptoms, but the condition can cause damage to the nervous system and internal organs. “Acute lead poisoning can cause a wide range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and decreased urine or blood production. Children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning,» the agency said.

What products are included in the recall?

BrandStorm included two lots of Natierra Freeze Dried Blueberries in the recall: Lot 2021363-1, Expiration Date: 12/2024, 1 Serving, 1.2oz (34g), UPC 812907011160, Lot 2022026-1, Expiration Date: 01 /2025, 1 serving, 1.2 oz (34 g), UPC 812907011160.

The company indicated that it sold the products included in the blueberry recall in the United States through retail stores and online. The fruit comes in white and blue bags with the Natierra brand and logo. The product can be identified by checking the product name, manufacturer details and batch number on the bottom right of the bag.

Risk of lead poisoning

The high levels of lead were discovered in a laboratory in Maryland following an investigation at the site where the fruit is packed. «Upon further investigation, it was found that the country of origin of the products is Lithuania and aggressive monitoring of heavy metals may be deemed necessary,» the FDA said.

It also urged consumers not to eat the affected blueberries and indicated that as an immediate action, the fruit packing site is actively working to improve the food safety system by implementing mandatory batch testing for heavy metals.

What to do if you have an affected product

“Lead is a natural element that can be found in fruits and vegetables during cultivation. Lead is a toxic substance present in our environment in small amounts, and we are all exposed to some lead through everyday actions such as inhaling dust, eating food, or drinking water,» the FDA said. It is important to note that children are more vulnerable than adults to lead poisoning. If a child is exposed to enough lead over a long period of time, such as weeks or months, permanent damage to the central nervous system can occur that can lead to learning disabilities, developmental defects, and other long-term health problems.”

Consumers who purchased Natierra Organic Freeze-Dried Blueberries 1.2oz, lot code 2021363-1 or 2022026-1 should discard the product. The company also announced that refunds are available at the point of purchase and returns will be made at the point of sale by validating lot codes on the affected bags.

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