Walmart Recalls Nearly 10,000 Cases of Apple Juice Due to Elevated Levels of Arsenic

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 9,535 cases of Great Value apple juice were recalled because the product contains "inorganic arsenic above action level set in industry guidance (13.2ppb)." FDA guidance does not allow inorganic arsenic levels in apple juice to exceed 10ppb (parts per billion). The recalled Great Value apple juice exceeds action levels by 3.2ppb.

Refresco Beverages US Inc. initiated the recall on August 15, and the FDA reported the recall to the public on August 20. Great Value is Walmart's private-label brand.

The recalled products are Great Value apple juice eight-ounce bottles sold in six-packs and marked as 100% Juice. The UPC is 0-78742-29655-5, and the best-if-used-by date is DEC2824 CT89-6. The bottles were distributed to Walmart retail locations in 27 states, including AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, PR, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, and WV.

What Is Arsenic?

Arsenic is an organic element found in the environment. Foods may be exposed to arsenic, depending on where they are grown and processed. The FDA regulates levels of arsenic because high exposure can be harmful to humans.

According to the FDA, children exposed to high levels of arsenic can suffer from learning disabilities, behavior challenges, and lower IQ. Fetuses, infants, and young children are more susceptible to these risks. For adults, high levels of arsenic in the long term can cause skin disorders, increased risks of certain cancers, and cardiovascular disease. In the short term, the symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, bruising, numbness, and burning sensations in the extremities of the body (hands and feet).

What To Do If You Have the Recalled Products

A Walmart spokesperson states, "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."

If you have the recalled product at home, do not consume it. Return it to a Walmart retail location for a refund. If you consumed the recalled product and are concerned or have questions, contact your health care provider as soon as possible.