Frozen berries sold at Costco, Trader Joe’s and other stores recalled due to possible hepatitis A contamination

The Food and Drug Administration announced Friday that some Scenic Fruit Company frozen fruit products sold at Costco, Trader Joe’s and a handful of other stores are being recalled because of possible hepatitis A contamination.

According to the agency, the nationwide recall has been issued specifically for frozen organic strawberries sold at Costco, Aldi, KeHE, Vital Choice Seafood and PCC Community Markets, as well as Trader Joe’s frozen organic tropical mix.

Frozen strawberries may also be sold under brand names such as Kirkland, Simple Nature, Made With and PCC Community Markets, the FDA said.

The FDA has published detailed information. Here Universal product codes, expiration dates, brand names, product names, and states where the berries are sold.

Although hepatitis A has not actually been detected on these products, the FDA is urging consumers to “use extreme caution” in returning the recalled items for a recall.

The Oregon-based Cinque Fruit Co. has stopped manufacturing and distributing the product while both the company and the FDA investigate.

Trader Joe’s said in one Statement that no illness has been reported in connection with these products, and that he has removed them from store shelves and destroyed them;

According to the FDA, hepatitis A is an “infectious liver disease” that can occur 15 to 50 days after exposure, including by eating contaminated food. It can present as a mild illness lasting a few weeks, but it can also develop into a more severe illness lasting several months.

Symptoms include fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, yellow stools and abnormal liver tests. For consumers with pre-existing health conditions, a severe case of hepatitis A can lead to liver failure.

The FDA advises consumers who have ingested the product to consult a health care professional, who may recommend vaccination. People who already have symptoms of hepatitis A are encouraged to contact their doctor or local health department immediately.