Publix stores in South Carolina are part of a new berry recall tied to an E. coli outbreak linked to blueberries. Reports cited in the recall update say more than 12 people became ill after eating the fruit sold through the grocery chain.
The affected blueberries were distributed to Publix locations in 12 states. In addition to South Carolina, the products were shipped to stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia, according to the available recall notice excerpt.
The update means shoppers who recently bought blueberries from Publix should check whether their purchase is part of the recall and avoid eating any product that may be affected. E. coli infections can cause serious stomach-related illness, which is why retailers and health officials typically urge consumers to discard recalled food or return it to the store.
Publix updated its recall information as of July 29, reflecting the wider response to the outbreak. For customers in South Carolina and other impacted states, the key issue is whether recently purchased berries match the recalled products connected to the reported illnesses.