WASHINGTON, D.C. – A recent recall by Walmart has brought to light concerns over potentially harmful levels of inorganic arsenic found in apple juice sold at stores across the U.S. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an urgent classification following the discovery, alerting consumers to the potential risks associated with consuming the affected product.
The recall pertains to approximately 9,535 cases of Great Value brand apple juice distributed in 25 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C. Manufacturer Refresco Beverages US Inc., based in Florida, took swift action to voluntarily recall the contaminated six-packs of 8-ounce juice bottles after detecting elevated levels of the chemical contaminant exceeding industry standards.
Company spokespersons from Refresco have not yet provided comments regarding the recall, but Walmart representative Molly Blakeman emphasized the priority of customer health and safety. The affected product has been promptly removed from stores, and investigations with the supplier are underway to address the issue at hand.
Inorganic and organic arsenic are commonly present in various food products, notes the National Institutes of Health. While routine testing helps monitor levels of these substances due to potential health implications, the FDA affirms that the levels found in the recalled apple juice are not expected to cause severe health consequences.
Compared to naturally occurring arsenic, the inorganic form poses greater toxicity to humans and can lead to more severe health effects. The Environmental Protection Agency classifies inorganic arsenic as a carcinogen, underscoring the importance of regulating its presence in consumable goods. Despite these concerns, the FDA has not reported any instances of illnesses linked to the consumption of the recalled apple juice.