Arsenic apple juice recall : In a significant health alert, Walmart has recalled nearly 10,000 cases of its Great Value brand apple juice due to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic. This recall affects products sold in 25 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia, raising concerns among consumers about the safety of their favorite beverages.
Details of the Recall
The recall was initiated on August 15, 2024, by Refresco Beverages U.S., the manufacturer of the apple juice. The affected product comes in six-packs of 8-ounce plastic bottles, each 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 classified the situation as a Class II risk, indicating that consuming the juice could lead to “temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.”
Health Risks from Elevated Arsenic Levels
Testing revealed that the apple juice contained 13.2 parts per billion (ppb) of inorganic arsenic, exceeding the FDA’s established action level of 10 ppb. Inorganic arsenic is a toxic substance that can pose serious health risks, particularly with prolonged exposure. Symptoms of arsenic exposure may include vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and muscle cramping. 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 Locations
The recalled apple juice was sold in Walmart stores across the following regions:
- Alabama
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Massachusetts
- Maryland
- Maine
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- North Carolina
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Puerto Rico
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- Vermont
- West Virginia
Consumer Guidance
Walmart has assured 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 the supplier, Refresco Beverages, to investigate the situation further. Consumers who have purchased the recalled apple juice are urged to return it to their local Walmart store for a full refund.
Conclusion: Stay Informed and Safe
The recall of Great Value apple juice serves as a critical 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 monitor their health if they have consumed the affected juice. If you have purchased this apple juice, take immediate action to return it and ensure the safety of your family.
