BREAKING: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent recall for several fruit juices due to serious sanitation concerns, specifically a failure to properly pasteurize the products. This recall, initiated by Evergreen Orchard Farm LLC of New Jersey, includes three juice varieties and has been classified as a Class II risk, indicating potential health risks for consumers.
The recall was announced on July 3, 2023, but the FDA confirmed the Class II classification on September 3, 2023. The agency warns that consuming these untreated juices could lead to temporary or medically reversible health issues, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Affected Products:
– Korean Pear Juice — 610 cases, codes P20261110 and P20261130
– Grape Juice — 78 cases, code G20261215
– Jujube Juice — 197 cases, codes J20260910 and J20261110
Each product is packaged in 4 fluid ounce foil pouches, with 25 pouches per case. These juices were distributed across retail locations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.
As of now, there have been no reported illnesses linked to the consumption of these juices. However, the FDA emphasizes the importance of pasteurization in eliminating harmful bacteria that can contaminate fresh-squeezed juices.
In an official statement, the FDA cautioned, “When fruits and vegetables are fresh-squeezed or used raw, bacteria from the produce can end up in your juice or cider. Unless the produce or the juice has been pasteurized or otherwise treated to destroy any harmful bacteria, the juice could be contaminated.”
IMPORTANT: Consumers who may have purchased these products are strongly advised NOT to consume them. The FDA is actively monitoring the situation, and the recall remains ongoing.
Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available, and be vigilant about the products you consume. This recall highlights the critical need for safety measures in food production to protect public health.
