Major Apple Juice Recall Expands: What You Need to Know

In a significant development, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded a recall on apple juice products due to potentially harmful levels of arsenic. This recall, which initially affected nearly 10,000 cases of Great Value brand apple juice sold at Walmart, has now been broadened to include an additional 133,500 cases across multiple brands and retailers.

The Scope of the Recall

The recall now encompasses products sold at major retailers including Walmart, Walgreens, Aldi, Dollar General, and more. The affected brands include Great Value, Nature’s Nectar, Market Basket, Nice!, Weis, Urban Meadow, Wellsley Farms, Solevita, Clover Valley, and Tropical Delight. These products were distributed across 26 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico.

Why the Recall?

The primary concern leading to this recall is the detection of arsenic levels slightly above the FDA's recommended limits. Arsenic, a heavy metal, can cause a range of adverse health effects if consumed in significant quantities over time. While the FDA has classified the initial recall as Class II, indicating that exposure may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, the expanded recall has not yet been classified.

Health Implications

Arsenic exposure can lead to various health issues, including skin lesions, developmental effects, cardiovascular disease, neurotoxicity, and an increased risk of cancer. The FDA has emphasized that while the levels detected are slightly above the recommended limits, they are unlikely to cause serious or irreversible health issues in the short term.

Affected Products

Here is a detailed list of the recalled products:

• Great Value 8oz Apple Juice in 6-pack: Sold at Walmart; Best if used by DEC 26, 2024, and DEC 27, 2024.
• Great Value 96oz Apple Juice: Sold at Walmart; Best if used by DEC 26, 2024, DEC 27, 2024, and DEC 28, 2024.
• Market Basket 100% Apple Juice 64oz: Sold at Market Basket; Code 032525.
• Nice! 100% Apple Juice 64oz: Sold at Walgreens; Best by MAR 25, 2025.
• Weis 100% Apple Juice 64oz: Sold at Weis Markets; Sell by MAR 25, 2025.
• Urban Meadow 100% Apple Juice 64oz: Sold at Brooklyn Fare; Best by MAR 26, 2025.
• Nature’s Nectar 100% Apple Juice 64oz: Sold at Aldi; Best by MAR 26, 2025, and MAR 27, 2025.
• Wellsley Farms 100% Apple Juice 96oz: Sold at BJ's and Walmart; Use by MAR 26, 2025.
• Solevita 100% Apple Juice 64oz: Sold at Lidl US; Best by MAR 27, 2025.
• Clover Valley 100% Apple Juice 64oz: Sold at Dollar General; Best by MAR 27, 2025.
• Tropical Delight 100% Apple Juice 64oz: Sold at various retailers in New York; Best by JUL 25, 2025.

What Should Consumers Do?

Consumers who have purchased any of the affected products are advised to stop using them immediately and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Retailers have been instructed to remove these products from their shelves and work with suppliers to investigate the issue further.

Manufacturer's Response

Refresco Beverages US Inc., the manufacturer behind these products, has issued a voluntary recall and is cooperating fully with the FDA. The company has stated that the health and safety of their customers is their top priority and they are taking all necessary steps to address the issue.

Future Precautions

The FDA continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about recalls and food safety alerts by visiting the FDA’s website or subscribing to their email notifications.

Conclusion

This expanded recall highlights the importance of stringent quality control measures in the food and beverage industry. While the levels of arsenic detected are not expected to cause serious health issues in the short term, the recall serves as a precautionary measure to ensure consumer safety. If you have any of the affected products in your home, it is best to err on the side of caution and return them to the store.

Stay safe and stay informed.

Sources: NBC New York, Today, MSN

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