Apple juice sold nationwide at various retailers, including Walmart and Walgreen’s, is being recalled due to potential contamination with arsenic, a toxic heavy metal that can have adverse health effects. The recall affects 133,500 cases of products from Refresco Beverages Inc. based in Tampa, Florida, sold in 26 states. The FDA had previously recalled only the Walmart Great Value brand, but the expanded recall includes additional brands without a classification. The affected products were sold at various retailers, including Walmart, Walgreens, Aldi, and more, in 26 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico.
The recalled products include various sizes and brands of apple juice, such as Great Value, Market Basket, Weis, Urban Meadow, Nature’s Nectar, Wellsley Farms, Solevita, and Clover Valley. Retailers like Walmart and Dollar General have removed these products from their shelves and are cooperating with the supplier to investigate the issue. The apple juice contaminated with arsenic was sold in multiple states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, New York, and more. Arsenic may be present in apple juice naturally as it can be absorbed by apple trees from soil and water. While organic arsenic is typically found in food, inorganic arsenic, which is more toxic and a known carcinogen, can be a result of environmental contamination.
Symptoms of arsenic poisoning from consuming contaminated apple juice may include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and muscle cramping. Inorganic arsenic exposure can be particularly harmful to children, leading to learning disabilities, lowered IQ, and behavioral issues. The FDA and other health organizations monitor arsenic levels in food and beverages to ensure consumer safety. Additionally, another recall was issued for Martinelli’s Gold Medal Apple Juice due to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic. It is important for consumers to be aware of potential contamination risks and follow recall notices issued by regulatory authorities and manufacturers.
As arsenic can have serious health consequences, it is crucial for consumers to be cautious when consuming food and beverages, especially those that may be contaminated with heavy metals. The apple juice recall serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and quality control measures in the production and distribution of products. Retailers are advised to remove the affected products from their shelves and work with suppliers to address any contamination issues promptly. As investigations continue, consumers are urged to stay informed about product recalls and potential health risks associated with arsenic contamination in food and beverages.
