Urgent nationwide recall of organic blueberries in place due to possible high lead content
Yesterday, multiple media outlets began reporting on an urgent nationwide recall of Natierra Organic Freeze- Dried Blueberry as certain pouches of those blueberries are being recalled because they could contain too much lead, according to MSN and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
BrandStorm Inc. announced that the company is recalling 2 lots of Organic Freeze-Dried Blueberry (lot # 2021363-1 & lot #2022026-1) pouches because of the presence or potential presence of lead above the FDA’s recommended limits; per the serving size specified on the nutritional facts panel.
People with high blood levels of lead may show no symptoms, but the condition may cause damage to the nervous system and internal organs. Acute lead poisoning may cause a wide range 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.
If a child is exposed to enough lead for a protracted period of time (e.g., weeks to months) permanent damage to the central nervous system can occur. This can result in learning disorders, developmental defects, and other long-term health problems
Natierra Organic Freeze-Dried Blueberries 1.2oz were distributed in the United States through retail and online stores services. The issue is isolated of two batches of Natierra Freeze-Dried Blueberries with the following codes Best By Date 12/2024 & 01/2025.
- Lot 2021363-1, Best By Date: 12/2024
- 1 serving, 1.2oz (34g), UPC 812907011160
- 1 serving, 1.2oz (34g), UPC 812907011160
- Lot 2022026-1, Best By Date: 01/2025
- 1 serving, 1.2oz (34g), UPC 812907011160
The impacted product is sold in white and blue pouch with Natierra brand and Logo. The product can be identified by checking the product name, manufacturer details and lot number on the bottom right of the pouch.
The concern was identified upon testing conducted by a lab in Maryland. An investigation was conducted by the packing site. The original heavy metal reports received for the crop year showed no presence of lead and-or cause for batch testing. After further investigation it was found that the products county of Origin is Lithuania and aggressive monitoring of heavy metals may be deemed necessary. As an immediate action the packing site is actively working to enhance food safety system by implementing mandatory batch testing for heavy metal.
To date, BrandStorm Inc. said it “has not received any reports of adverse events related to use of the product as part of this proactive recall.”
The company has urged consumers who purchased the two impacted Natierra Organic Freeze-Dried Blueberries to discard and not consume the product. ~ Yahoo! News
Do not consume the product impacted. Consumers who purchased Natierra Organic Freeze-Dried Blueberries 1.2oz, with lot Code 2021363-1 or 2022026-1 should discard of the product. Refunds are available at the location of purchase. Returns will be provided at the point of sale through validation of lot codes on the affected pouches.
Lead is a naturally occurring element that may be contracted in fruits and vegetable during cultivation. Lead is a toxic substance present in our environment in small amounts and everyone is exposed to some lead from daily actions such as inhaling dust, eating food, or drinking water.
Exposure to larger amounts of lead can cause lead poisoning. While lead can affect nearly every bodily system, its effects depend upon the amount of, and duration of lead exposure and age of the person exposed.
To date, BrandStorm Inc. has not received any reports of adverse events related to use of the product as part of this proactive recall. Should any consumer of this product have experienced any of the symptoms listed above, they should seek medical advice from their physician immediately.
- Those who purchased online at www.Natierra.comExternal Link Disclaimer can email salesadmin@BrandStormInc.com to request a refund.
- Customers with questions may call 310-559-0259, 8am – 4:30pm PST, email salesadmin@BrandStormInc.com or send a direct message utilizing www.Natierra.comExternal Link Disclaimer website.
(Cover photo, Image credit: Twitter)
Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today / Follow Richard on Facebook and Twitter
