A regular inspection has prompted a major recall of Walmart’s store-brand apple juice. Thousands of cases of Great Value apple juice are being removed from shelves nationwide because tests found inorganic arsenic levels above industry standards. The recall began with the manufacturer and was expanded by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), highlighting concerns about food safety and everyday contaminants.
This article explains what you need to know about the Great Value apple juice recall. We’ll outline which products are affected, the health risks linked to inorganic arsenic, and what to do if you have this juice at home. Knowing these details can help you keep your family safe and make better choices when shopping.
Recall Details: Which Products Are Affected?
The recall affects Great Value brand 100% Apple Juice sold in six-packs of 8-ounce bottles. Refresco Beverages US Inc., the Florida-based manufacturer, voluntarily recalled the juice after an internal test found higher levels of a chemical contaminant.
Key details of the recall include:
- Product: Great Value 100% Apple Juice
- Packaging: 6-packs of 8 fl oz bottles
- Quantity: Approximately 9,535 cases are affected.
- Distribution: The juice was sold in Walmart stores across 25 states, including New York, as well as in Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia.
After the first announcement on August 15, the FDA made the recall more urgent. This means the product could cause short-term health problems, but it is not expected to cause serious or lasting harm. Walmart has taken the juice off its shelves and is working with the supplier to find out what caused the contamination.
Understanding the Health Risks of Arsenic
Hearing the word “arsenic” can be worrying, so it helps to know the facts. Arsenic is a mineral that occurs naturally in soil, water, and air. There are two types: organic and inorganic. Both can be found in small amounts in many foods, but inorganic arsenic is more harmful to people.
The National Institutes of Health says that regular testing for arsenic in food is standard. The health effects depend on the type of arsenic and how much is consumed. Even slightly higher levels can cause symptoms like:
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Numbness in extremities
- Muscle cramping
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says inorganic arsenic is a carcinogen, so long-term, high exposure can raise cancer risk. However, the FDA says the levels found in the recalled apple juice are low and are not expected to cause serious health problems. So far, the FDA has not reported any illnesses linked to this recall.
What Should You Do Now?
If you have recently purchased Great Value apple juice, it is crucial to check if it is part of the recall.
- Check your juice: See if you have a 6-pack of 8-ounce bottles of Great Value 100% Apple Juice. Look for any lot codes or expiration dates listed by Walmart or the FDA.
- Do not drink the juice if it is part of the recall. Do not give it to anyone else, especially children, since they are more sensitive to contaminants.
- You can return the juice to the Walmart store where you bought it for a full refund. If you prefer, you can also throw it away safely.
- If you or someone in your family drank the recalled apple juice, watch for symptoms like stomach pain or diarrhea. If you are worried about your health, talk to a doctor.
Protecting Your Family
This recall reminds us that our food supply can be complicated and that strong rules are important. It can be worrying to hear about contaminants in everyday foods like apple juice, but testing and recalls are there to keep people safe. Staying up to date on recalls helps families make sure their food is safe.
For the latest information on this and other food recalls, you can visit the official FDA website or check major news outlets that report on product safety. Staying informed can help you shop with confidence and keep your family healthy.
