Publix Super Markets, Inc. expanded a recall of GreenWise frozen berries on July 31, 2026, due to possible E. coli contamination [1], [2], [3].
This expansion follows a multistate outbreak that has sickened at least 12 people [1], [4]. The recall is critical because E. coli can cause severe gastrointestinal illness, necessitating the immediate removal of contaminated products from consumer freezers to prevent further infections.
The recall affects GreenWise frozen berries, including blueberries, that were sold at Publix stores across eight U.S. states [2], [5]. South Carolina is among the states where the affected products were distributed [2], [1].
Investigators widened the probe after the berries were linked to the ongoing outbreak [1], [4]. While some reports indicate the berries were recalled out of an abundance of caution, other data links the products directly to the multistate illness cluster [4], [5].
Consumers who purchased GreenWise frozen berries in the affected regions are advised to check their packaging and avoid consuming the product. Publix said the company is working with investigators to contain the spread of the bacteria [1], [3].
E. coli contamination in frozen produce often stems from contaminated water or soil during the growing process, or cross-contamination during processing. Because these products are frozen, the bacteria can persist for long periods if not treated with high-pressure processing or heat [1], [5].
“Publix expanded a recall of GreenWise frozen berries on July 31, 2026.”
The expansion of this recall suggests that initial tracing efforts were insufficient to capture the full scope of the contamination. By widening the recall to include more berry varieties and states, health officials are attempting to mitigate a public health risk that has already resulted in 12 illnesses, highlighting the challenges of tracing ingredients in the frozen food supply chain.
