A massive Class I recall of over 55,000 pounds of frozen blueberries signals dangerous lapses in America’s food supply chain, putting vulnerable families at risk of deadly Listeria even under President Trump’s renewed focus on protecting American health and security.
Story Snapshot
- Willamette Valley Fruit Company recalled 55,689 pounds of IQF blueberries on February 12, 2026, due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
- FDA upgraded the recall to Class I—the highest risk level—on February 24, 2026, warning of serious health consequences or death.
- Products distributed in bulk to businesses in Michigan, Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin, and Canada; no retail sales to consumers.
- No illnesses reported yet, but Listeria thrives in frozen conditions, threatening pregnant women, newborns, elderly, and immunocompromised Americans.
Recall Details and Timeline
Willamette Valley Fruit Company, a subsidiary of Oregon Potato Company LLC in Salem, Oregon, initiated a voluntary recall on February 12, 2026. The company targeted 55,689 pounds of individually quick-frozen blueberries packed in 30-pound cases and 1,400-pound totes.
Specific lot codes include cases 2055 B2, 2065 B1, 2065 B3 expiring July 23-24, 2027, and totes 3305 A1, 3305 B1 expiring November 25, 2027. Distribution reached foodservice operators, manufacturers, and distributors in four states and Canada.
Life-threatening Listeria risk prompts massive frozen blueberry recall across multiple states https://t.co/viy7WAjtLx
— FOX Business (@FoxBusiness) February 26, 2026
FDA Escalation to Class I Status
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration elevated the recall to Class I on February 24, 2026. This classification denotes a reasonable probability of serious adverse health consequences or death from Listeria monocytogenes.
The bacterium survives refrigeration and freezing, causing listeriosis with symptoms like fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. Vulnerable groups face the gravest dangers, underscoring the need for vigilant food safety in industrial channels.
Listeria Risks and Vulnerable Populations
Listeria monocytogenes persists in cold-chain environments, making frozen fruits like blueberries high-risk vectors. Infection risks severe outcomes for pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
The FDA advises affected businesses to dispose of products immediately, sanitize exposed surfaces, and seek refunds from the company. No illnesses have surfaced as of February 26, 2026, thanks to proactive measures, but swift action prevented potential tragedy.
Prior Incidents and Industry Patterns
This recall echoes recent precedents, including a July 2025 Class I upgrade for organic blueberries from Alma Pak International LLC and a January 2026 recall of over 13,000 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken for Listeria.
Food safety experts emphasize rigorous environmental testing due to the pathogen’s cold tolerance. Bulk B2B formats heighten risks compared to retail, prompting calls for stricter protocols in frozen produce supply chains serving institutions and manufacturers.
Impacts on Businesses and Public Health
Short-term effects include product disposal, sanitation costs, and supply disruptions for food processors and institutional kitchens across Michigan, Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin, and Canada. Long-term, expect heightened Listeria testing and potential regulatory tightening.
Economic losses stem from discarded inventory and refunds, though minor relative to retail recalls. The incident reinforces food safety awareness without direct consumer exposure, aligning with conservative priorities for robust oversight protecting American families.
Limited Transparency and Ongoing Status
As of February 26, 2026, the recall remains active with notifications via email to recipients. FDA enforcement reports detail lots and guidance, but the company provided no direct statements despite media outreach.
Specific business recipients stay undisclosed, and the contamination trigger—potential versus confirmed—lacks clarity. Businesses must monitor for symptoms and consult doctors if exposed, highlighting gaps in supply chain accountability that demand stronger federal enforcement.
Sources:
Oregon Company Recalls Frozen Blueberries Over Listeria Fears
Frozen Blueberries Recalled Across 4 States
FDA Upgrades Frozen Blueberries Recall to Class I Over Listeria Concern
Frozen Blueberry Recall: FDA Issues Class I Alert Over Possible Listeria Contamination
