Apple Juice Sold at Walmart Recalled Due to Elevated Arsenic Levels

The Food and Drug Administration just announced an active recall on apple juice sold at Walmart locations in 27 states and regions. This is due to the elevated levels of arsenic in the product.

Great Value brand apple juice sold in 8-ounce plastic bottles is the product impacted by this recall. These bottles were sold in six-packs, and approximately 9,535 cases were sold in the following states and regions: 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.

The recalled apple juice has a printed best by date of “DEC2824” as well as code CT89-6 on the bottles. The recall was initiated August 15, so the affected drinks were sold prior. If your product matches this information, dispose of them immediately or return them to their place of purchase.

Arsenic is a toxic heavy metal that can enter food and drinks through contaminated water, soil, pesticides or industrial processes. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting juices, especially apple juice, in a young child’s diet as fruit juice can be susceptible to higher arsenic levels.

While it is common and presumably harmless to consume low amounts of heavy metals in your diet, high levels of arsenic can cause arsenic poisoning. Symptoms can include headaches, drowsiness, fever, stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, life-threatening complications can occur. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after consuming the recalled apple juice, contact your health care provider immediately.