The FDA’s Updated Strategy to Enhance Safety of Imported Berries

FDA Implements New Prevention Strategy to Combat Hepatitis A and Norovirus in Berries

In a bid to put an end to the frequent outbreaks of hepatitis A and norovirus associated with berries in the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has introduced a new prevention strategy focusing on imported berries.

Since the late 1990s, berries have been at the center of enteric virus outbreaks, leading to severe gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms. In response, the FDA has developed a comprehensive plan to enhance food safety and sanitation practices within the global berry industry.

According to FDA spokesperson Janell Goodwin, the majority of fresh and frozen berries consumed in the U.S. are safe; however, outbreaks have been traced back to imported berries over the years. For example, in 2022 and 2023, hepatitis A outbreaks were linked to berries from a company in Baja California, Mexico.

The new prevention strategy includes measures to improve hygiene practices among field workers, manage sanitary facilities, and monitor and limit the spread of viruses among farm and facility workers. Additionally, efforts will be made to enhance scientific knowledge of how viruses persist in agricultural and processing environments.

Frozen berries, which can retain viruses for longer periods due to the freezing process, have been identified as more susceptible to contamination compared to fresh berries. Therefore, consumers are advised to opt for locally sourced or domestic berries and avoid frozen berries from foreign imports.

To ensure the safety of consumption, experts recommend rinsing berries with cold water before eating them and employing additional precautions such as soaking them in a baking soda solution. While concerns over contamination may deter some from consuming berries, it is important to note that domestically grown berries have not been linked to enteric outbreaks in over 35 years.

Overall, despite the risks associated with imported berries, the nutritional benefits of berries make them valuable additions to a healthy diet. Consumers are encouraged to weigh the risks and rewards and make informed choices when it comes to consuming berries.