🫐 Florida Couple Sues Publix After Allegedly Contracting E. coli From Frozen Blueberries

A South Florida couple has filed what appears to be the first lawsuit connected to the recent GreenWise Organic frozen blueberry recall, claiming contaminated berries sold at Publix left them seriously ill.

According to the lawsuit filed in Palm Beach County, Oscar and Roberta Cash purchased the frozen blueberries from a Publix store in Jupiter in May. Soon afterward, both became sick with symptoms consistent with E. coli O145:H28infection.

🏥 Hospitalized for Nearly a Month

The complaint alleges Roberta Cash became critically ill, spending 10 days in Jupiter Medical Center before being transferred to a nursing facility for nearly three more weeks of treatment. She reportedly continues to receive ongoing medical care. Oscar Cash also became ill but remained at home while caring for his wife.

⚖️ The Lawsuit

The suit alleges the frozen blueberries were contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O145:H28, a dangerous strain capable of causing severe gastrointestinal illness and, in some cases, life-threatening kidney complications.

Attorneys representing the couple say the contamination should have been prevented through proper food safety measures. The lawsuit seeks compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. The allegations have not yet been proven in court.

🫐 The Recall

The lawsuit follows a nationwide recall of GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries sold exclusively at Publix stores.

The recall affects 10-ounce bags with:

• 📦 Lot Code: 60401

• 📅 Best By: February 9, 2028

The recalled blueberries were distributed to Publix stores in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and other nearby markets. Consumers are advised not to eat the product and should either dispose of it or return it to Publix for a full refund.

📊 Outbreak Investigation

The FDA and CDC are investigating the outbreak. As of the latest update, officials have identified 12 confirmed illnesses, including 11 in Florida and one in Georgia, with several hospitalizations reported. The investigation remains ongoing.

🚨 Symptoms of E. coli Infection

If you’ve eaten the recalled blueberries, watch for:

• 🤢 Severe stomach cramps

• 💩 Diarrhea (which may become bloody)

• 🤮 Vomiting

• 🤒 Fever

• 💧 Dehydration

Young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems face the highest risk of serious complications.

Health officials recommend seeking medical attention immediately if severe symptoms develop after consuming the recalled product.

Bottom Line: While food recalls are relatively uncommon, this case highlights how a product marketed as a healthy choice can become the center of a serious public health investigation. The lawsuit is expected to be closely watched as federal investigators continue working to determine exactly how the contamination occurred.