Walmart and Wegmans have issued an urgent recall for specific batches of canned fruit after routine testing revealed dangerously high levels of lead. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), over 62,000 cans of fruit distributed across 27 U.S. states are affected. Consumers are strongly advised to stop consuming these products immediately and either return them to the store or safely dispose of them.
The recall includes the following 15-ounce canned fruit products:
Recalled Products
| Product | UPC | Lot Code | Best-By Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Value Pear Halves in Pear Juice from Concentrate | 077890365410 | 6PJ 09 C2425 | SEP 01 2027 |
| Wegmans Fruit Cocktail in 100% Juice with Added Ingredients | 077890461525 | 6FCB 02 C2206 | SEP 01 2027 |
| Wegmans Halved Pears in Pear Juice from Concentrate | 077890747490 | 6PJ 09 C2295 | SEP 01 2027 |
| Wegmans Organic Pears Sliced in Organic Pear Juice from Concentrate | 077890365410 | 6OPSJ 04 C2893 | SEP 01 2027 |
The recall impacts approximately 62,340 cans sold across Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Health Risks of Lead Exposure
Lead is a toxic heavy metal that poses severe health risks even at low exposure levels. The FDA classifies this as a Class II recall, indicating the possibility of temporary or medically reversible health effects. However, chronic exposure can lead to more serious conditions.
Experts emphasize that no amount of lead exposure is considered safe, especially for children under six years of age.
Consumer Guidance
Individuals who have purchased these canned fruits should:
For additional information or to report an issue, consumers can contact the FDA Consumer Hotline at 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332).
Source: US FDA