Walmart has announced a recall of over 9,500 cases of Great Value apple juice sold nationwide due to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported. The recall affects eight-ounce plastic bottles sold in six-packs.
Refresco Beverages US Inc., the manufacturer of the affected product, voluntarily initiated the recall after testing revealed that the apple juice contained inorganic arsenic levels exceeding industry guidance. The FDA’s 2023 guidelines specify that apple juice should not exceed ten parts per billion (ppb) of inorganic arsenic, but the recalled juice was found to contain 13.2 ppb.
Inorganic arsenic, a more toxic form of arsenic compared to its organic counterpart, can be harmful if ingested over long periods. It is associated with serious health issues, including cancer and skin lesions. The FDA has classified this recall as Class II, indicating that while the risk of severe health issues is considered low, the recalled juice may still cause “temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.”
The recall affects products with a best-used-by date of December 28, 2024, and a Universal Product Code (UPC) of 0-78742-29655-5. The contaminated apple juice was distributed to Walmart locations across multiple states and territories, including Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, and Puerto Rico, among others.
Walmart has removed the affected products from its shelves and is working with the supplier to investigate the issue. A Walmart spokesperson stated, “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.”
Health Risks of Inorganic Arsenic
Inorganic arsenic exposure typically occurs through contaminated food or water. Sources include food crops irrigated with tainted water, industrial byproducts, and tobacco use. Short-term exposure may result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and irregular heart rhythms. Chronic exposure can lead to long-term health problems such as persistent sore throats, digestive issues, skin pigmentation changes, and even cancer.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled apple juice are advised to dispose of it immediately. If any adverse symptoms develop after consumption, individuals should seek medical attention.
This recall follows a similar issue earlier this year involving nearly 25,000 cases of Martinelli’s apple juice, which also faced concerns over arsenic contamination.
