Refresco Beverages US Inc, based in Tampa, Florida has announced a voluntary recall of nearly 10,000 cases of Great Value Apple Juice sold at Walmart stores in multiple states due to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic, a carcinogen that can be toxic to humans.
Background
The product is being recalled due to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic. The company has not issued a press release for the recall and has not yet said how the contamination was discovered.
The affected product was distributed to Walmart retail locations in the following states: AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, PR, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, and WV.
Walmart said they have removed the affected apple juice from stores and are investigating the incident with their supplier.
Product Details
- Product Name – Great Value Apple Juice
- Size – 8 oz
- Packaging – 6 packs of PET plastic bottles
- UPC Code – 0-78742-29655-5
- Best If Used By Date – December 28, 2024
- Quantity – 9,535 cases
Consumer Action
Consumers should search their homes for the recalled apple juice.
As with all food recalls, consumers should discontinue use even if the product looks or smells safe to drink.
The company has not yet said if the recalled products can be returned to the store for a refund. At a minimum, consumers should dispose of the recalled items immediately.
Health Risks
The company has not yet said if any illnesses or injuries associated with the recalled products have been reported. However, consumers experiencing illness after consumption of the recalled apple juice should contact their medical provider immediately.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “arsenic may be present in food from the environment where foods are grown, raised, or processed” and that “levels of arsenic in the environment can vary depending on natural geographical makeup and proximity to past or current use or manufacturing of products made with arsenic.”
Prolonged consumption of arsenic-contaminated water and food poses significant health risks. Long term exposure can lead to the development of various cancers and cause skin damage. Research has shown possible links between arsenic exposure and heart-related illnesses, as well as an increased likelihood of developing diabetes.
The effects of arsenic are particularly concerning for developing fetuses and young children. Studies have shown that exposure during pregnancy or early childhood can hinder cognitive growth, potentially affecting a child’s learning abilities and overall brain development. There is also evidence suggesting that such early exposure might contribute to a higher mortality rate among young adults.
Commenting on this article, one national food poisoning lawyer said, “Consumers who shop at Walmart in one of the affected states should immediately check their homes and throw away any of the recalled product that is found.”
