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Federal regulators are warning businesses about a large recall of frozen blueberries after potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause serious illness or death.

Salem-based Oregon Potato Company (OPC), known for producing frozen and dehydrated fruits, vegetables, and potatoes, recalled roughly 55,689 pounds of individually quick-frozen blueberries.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) upgraded the recall to a Class 1 notice on Feb. 24, signaling a "reasonable probability" that the products could cause severe health problems.

The frozen blueberries were distributed across several US states, including Michigan, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin, as well as Canada, though they were not sold directly in retail stores.

OPC packaged the blueberries in 30-pound corrugated cases with polyethylene liners and 1,400-pound industrial totes, FoxBusiness reported.

Lot codes for the 30-pound cases include 2055 B2, 2065 B1, and 2065 B3, expiring in July 2027, while the totes bear 3305 A1 and 3305 B1, expiring Nov. 25, 2027.

"This is a serious situation," the FDA said. "Exposure to Listeria monocytogenes could cause serious adverse health consequences or death."

FDA Warns of Listeria in Frozen Blueberries

Listeria monocytogenes is commonly found in soil, water, and decaying vegetation and can survive in refrigeration.

While healthy adults may rarely experience severe symptoms, the bacteria can be dangerous to pregnant people, newborns, the elderly, and anyone with a weakened immune system.

Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, stiff neck, and confusion, depending on the infection type.

The recall remains ongoing, and the FDA noted that no public press release had been issued by OPC at the time of the notice. Businesses receiving the affected products have been urged to stop distribution immediately.

OPC operates under the name Willamette Valley Fruit Company for distribution purposes, USA Today reported. The company has not yet responded to requests for further comment regarding the recall or any corrective measures.

Listeria contamination can occur during harvesting or processing, particularly in environments where sanitation is not fully controlled. The FDA continues to monitor the situation to prevent any potential outbreak.

Consumers or businesses handling these products should check lot codes carefully and follow FDA guidance for disposal or return.