Walmart has removed nearly 10,000 cases of Great Value apple juice from stores in 25 states, including Florida, due to potentially dangerous levels of inorganic arsenic.
The manufacturer, Refresco Beverages US, based in Florida, voluntarily recalled the six-pack of 8-ounce bottles after detecting levels of the chemical contaminant that exceeded industry standards.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) escalated the recall's classification to a more urgent category last Friday, following the initial announcement on August 15. According to the new classification, the affected product could cause temporary adverse health effects, though it is unlikely to cause severe or irreversible medical issues.
The recall impacts 9,535 cases of Great Value apple juice distributed in 25 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. A spokesperson for Refresco did not immediately respond to requests for comment made by the Associated Press on Sunday.
"The health and safety of our customers is always our top priority," stated Molly Blakeman, a spokesperson for Walmart, in a press release. "We have removed this product from our affected stores and are working with the supplier to investigate the matter," she added.
According to the National Institutes of Health, it is common to find very low levels of both organic and inorganic arsenic in various food products. Routine testing is conducted because slightly elevated levels of either form can cause symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, numbness, and muscle cramps.
The FDA states that inorganic arsenic is more toxic to humans than the organic form of the mineral, and its health effects are more severe. The Environmental Protection Agency has classified inorganic arsenic as a carcinogen, meaning it can cause cancer.
Although the levels detected in the recalled apple juice bottles are low, the FDA does not expect them to cause serious health consequences. No illnesses associated with the consumption of this juice have been reported so far.
Key Questions About Walmart's Apple Juice Recall
This section addresses some of the most common questions regarding the recent recall of Great Value apple juice by Walmart due to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic.
Why did Walmart recall Great Value apple juice?
Walmart recalled nearly 10,000 cases of Great Value apple juice due to the detection of potentially dangerous levels of inorganic arsenic.
Which states are affected by the recall?
The recall affects 25 states, including Florida, as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia.
What are the health risks associated with inorganic arsenic?
Inorganic arsenic is more toxic than its organic form and can cause symptoms like vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, numbness, and muscle cramps. It is also classified as a carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Has anyone reported illness due to the recalled apple juice?
No illnesses have been reported in connection with the consumption of the recalled Great Value apple juice so far.