Arsenic apple juice recall : Walmart has issued a significant recall affecting nearly 10,000 cases of its Great Value brand apple juice due to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic. This recall, which impacts products sold in 25 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia, comes after testing revealed arsenic levels exceeding the FDA’s recommended action limit.
Details of the Recall
The recall was initiated on August 15, 2024, by Refresco Beverages U.S., the manufacturer behind the Great Value apple juice. The affected juice comes in six-packs of 8-ounce plastic bottles, all with a “best if used by” date of December 28, 2024, and a Universal Product Code (UPC) of 0-78742-29655-5. Following the recall announcement, the FDA elevated the risk classification to Class II on August 22, indicating that consumption of the juice could lead to “temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.”
Arsenic Levels and Health Risks
Testing revealed that the apple juice contained 13.2 parts per billion (ppb) of inorganic arsenic, surpassing the FDA’s action level of 10 ppb. Inorganic arsenic is a known carcinogen and can pose serious health risks, particularly with prolonged exposure. Symptoms of arsenic exposure may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, numbness, and muscle cramps. While the FDA does not anticipate serious health issues from the levels found in the recalled juice, it emphasizes the importance of monitoring arsenic levels in food products.
Affected Regions
The recall affects Walmart stores across a wide range of locations, including:
- Alabama
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Massachusetts
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- North Carolina
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- Vermont
- West Virginia
Consumer Guidance
Walmart has reassured customers that the health and safety of its shoppers is a top priority. The company has removed the affected products from its shelves and is working closely with Refresco to investigate the situation further. Consumers who have purchased the recalled apple juice are advised to return it to their local Walmart for a full refund.
Conclusion: Stay Informed and Safe
The recall of Great Value apple juice serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of food safety and the potential risks associated with contaminants in our food supply. As consumers, it is essential to stay informed about product recalls and to be vigilant about the safety of the food we consume. If you have purchased this apple juice, take immediate action to return it and ensure the safety of your family.
