Recall Issued for Walmart Apple Juice

Walmart has recalled thousands of cases of apple juice across multiple states due to concerning levels of inorganic arsenic.

At a Glance

Walmart recalls nearly 10,000 cases of “Great Value” apple juice due to elevated inorganic arsenic levels.
The recall affects products sold in 25 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia.
The FDA announced the recall, later updating it to a Class II recall.
No illnesses have been reported, and the product has been removed from affected stores.

Walmart Recalls Apple Juice Over Arsenic Levels

Walmart has recalled nearly 10,000 cases of its “Great Value” brand apple juice after tests revealed excessive levels of inorganic arsenic. The recall affects products sold in 25 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia.

This decision came after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall on August 15, updating it to a Class II recall. Class II recalls involve products that might cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences but are unlikely to cause serious health issues.

Walmart acted swiftly to remove the product from affected stores. The company is working with the supplier, Refresco Beverages US Inc., to investigate the issue. Walmart spokesman Molly Blakeman said, “The health and safety of our customers is always a top priority. We have removed this product from our impacted stores and are working with the supplier to investigate.”

Walmart has recalled nearly 10,000 cases of apple juice sold in stores across the U.S. The product was found to contain potentially harmful levels of inorganic arsenic https://t.co/BRcsQbBSlo

— Action News on 6abc (@6abc) August 26, 2024

Understanding Arsenic in Apple Juice

Inorganic arsenic is highly toxic compared to its organic counterpart, contributing to the elevated risk in these products. Symptoms of high arsenic exposure include vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, while long-term exposure has been linked to cancer.

The FDA regularly tests food products for arsenic levels to ensure public safety. The affected Great Value apple juice bottles showed arsenic levels of 13.2 parts per billion, exceeding the FDA’s upper limit of 10 parts per billion for inorganic arsenic in apple juice.

Short-term high-level arsenic exposure can cause nausea, vomiting, bruising, and numbness. In young children, it’s been associated with neurological effects like learning disabilities and lowered IQ. Adults face increased risks of skin disorders, various cancers, and cardiovascular disease.

Compliance and Consumer Safety

While both natural and manmade sources can contribute to arsenic in apple juice, the FDA set a limit of 10 parts per billion for inorganic arsenic in 2023. Walmart’s recalled product far exceeded this limit, raising safety concerns. Refresco Beverages US Inc. issued the voluntary recall, and no illnesses have been reported yet.

The recalled apple juice is sold in six packs of 8-ounce PET plastic bottles, with a “best if used by” date of December 28, 2024. The affected product has a UPC code of 0-78742-29655-5. The recall underscores the importance of regular product safety checks and the crucial role of the FDA in maintaining public health.