Apple Juice Sold in 27 States Recalled Due to Arsenic Contamination

Check your refrigerator and pantry: the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) just announced an active recall of apple juice sold nationwide due to arsenic levels higher than what FDA guidance allows.

The recall was initiated on August 15 and involves approximately 9,535 cases of Great Value brand apple juice. The apple juice was packaged in 8-ounce plastic bottles and sold as a six-pack. To identify the product, check the packaging for the UPC number 0-78742-29655-5, best-by date "DEC2824," and code CT89-6. If you have the product in your possession, dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase.

The apple juice was sold in Walmart locations and distributed to the following states: Alabama, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Vermont, and West Virginia.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element in the environment found in rock, soil, water, air, plants, and animals. All arsenic is toxic to humans, and exposure to high levels can cause arsenic poisoning. Symptoms of this include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, cough, chest pain, diarrhea, a "pins and needles" feeling, and more.

If you are experiencing symptoms of arsenic poisoning, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can conduct a heavy metal test, which measures high levels of arsenic in your body after immediate exposure. Blood tests can also measure long-term exposure to high levels of arsenic within six and 12 months.