Walmart has recalled 10,000 cases of apple juice.
This is because of the harmful substance arsenic, which can be fatal to humans when it occurs in large doses.
Heightened Risk
The FDA originally issued a warning about the apple juice on August 15th.
But it has now given the juice a more urgent level of classification as the apple juice was found to have inorganic arsenic in it. This is more poisonous to humans than the naturally occurring mineral form of arsenic.
Carcinogen
Arsenic is classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a carcinogen.
In the first instance, though, a slightly elevated level of arsenic will cause vomiting, diarrhea, numbness and muscle cramping.
Testing Routine
Testing for arsenic in foods is routine.
Since low levels of arsenic can occur in many foods, the FDA has a strict testing policy and strict guidelines.
Great Value Apple Juice
The brand recalled is Walmart’s Great Value brand apple juice.
It is made by Refresco Beverages US, based in Florida, and is sold in 25 states as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia.
Voluntary Recall
The recall was issued voluntarily.
However, no comment has yet been made by Refresco on the matter. It is currently a class II recall which means that the product may cause “temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences”.
How to Identify Which Apple Juice
The recalled product has a use-by date of December 28th 2024.
It is also marked with a code of CT89-6 on each bottle.
What To Do
If you have bought any of the affected apple juice, get rid of it immediately.
You can also take it back to the store for a refund. If you have consumed any of the product and later become ill, seek medical advice.
Health and Safety Priority
A spokesperson for Walmart has issued a statement on the recall.
She says: “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.”
Long Term Risks
The affected apple juice poses a very low risk of fatality.
However, longer term exposure to arsenic can cause skin disorders, cardiovascular disease and skin, bladder or lung cancer.
