A recent hepatitis outbreak is linked to frozen fruit sold at Costco, according to Canadian officials.
The brand Nature’s Touch is recalling its “Organic Berry Cherry Blend” because of the outbreak. Health officials are concerned that consumers may have the product in their homes. The infected product has a “Best Before” date of March 15, 2018.
Costco does not have the recall listed on its website, so it is not known if the product has been sold in the United States yet.
“Recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the store where they were purchased. Food contaminated with Hepatitis A virus may not look or smell spoiled,” according to a statement from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
“This recall was triggered by findings of the CFIA during the investigation into a foodborne illness outbreak.”
The following information can help identify the infected product:
. Nature’s Touch brand Organic Berry Cherry Blend
. 1.5 kg (3.3 lb)
. Best Before dates up to and including 2018 MR 15
. UPC 8 73668 00179 1
“Individuals became sick in February and March of this year. Some of the individuals who became ill have reported eating the recalled product,” the Public Health Agency of Canada reported.
“If you are unsure whether a frozen fruit product you have in your home is part of the food recall warning, do not consume it. Secure the product in a plastic bag, throw it out and wash your hands with warm soapy water.”
Symptoms of hepatitis usually show up 15-50 days after exposure.
“Hepatitis A can range in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a severe illness lasting several months. You can get the Hepatitis A virus by eating contaminated food or water or through contact with an infected person’s stool,” the public health agency reported.
“If you suspect you have been exposed to the recalled product, or have symptoms consistent for Hepatitis A, see your health care provider immediately. Vaccination can prevent the onset of symptoms if given within two weeks of exposure.”
Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
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REFERENCES:
1. “Hepatitis Outbreak Linked to Frozen Organic Fruit Sold at Costco.” Food Safety News. N.p., 16 Apr. 2016. Web. 18 Apr. 2016.
2. “Frozen Berry Mix Sold At Costco Recalled Due To Hepatitis A.” The Huffington Post. N.p., 16 Apr. 2016. Web. 18 Apr. 2016.
