'Urgent' Recall: Blueberries Pulled Over Lead Concerns

A brand of organic freeze-dried blueberries has been "urgently" recalled due to the possible presence of high levels of lead.

The nationwide recall affects two lots of BrandStorm's Natierra-branded Organic Freeze-Dried Blueberry because of the "presence or potential presence of lead above the FDA's recommended limits," the company announced. The problem was discovered during testing at a laboratory in Maryland.

"After further investigation, it was found that the products county of Origin is Lithuania and aggressive monitoring of heavy metals may be deemed necessary," the company added. "As an immediate action, the packing site is actively working to enhance food safety system by implementing mandatory batch testing for heavy metal."

The products were distributed in retail and online stores across the U.S. The recall will affect items with Lot number 2021363-1, Best By Date of 12/2024 and UPC 812907011160; and Lot 2022026-1, Best By Date of 01/2025 and UPC 812907011160. Photos of the product's packaging are available on the FDA's website.

People having the affected products should dispose of them immediately and can get a refund at the place where they purchased the item. Those who bought it online can contact salesadmin@BrandStormInc.com to inquire about the refund. Customers can also contact the company at 310-559-0259 or through email if they have any questions.

Lead exposure

People may absorb lead by breathing it in, consuming or absorbing its particles, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Irrespective of the route, the health impacts are the same.

For instance, short-term exposure to high levels of it can cause a person to feel constipated, irritable and tired, and they also experience memory loss and tingling in the hands and feet. Those with prolonged exposure may be at risk for kidney disease, heart disease and even reduced fertility, the agency noted.

Kids are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children tend to absorb four to five times as much lead compared to adults. In them, the exposure may cause developmental defects, learning disorders and even damage to the central nervous system.

"There is no known safe blood lead concentration," noted the WHO.

The company hasn't received "any reports of adverse events" related to the consumption of the recalled product.

"First and foremost, we remain focused on the health and welfare of our employees, customers, and partners," the company said, calling the move a "proactive" recall. "We are committed to taking the appropriate steps to ensure our network and services continue to operate seamlessly for our customers."