Olivia Asher is a reporter at the New Herald Tribune covering breaking news for the Digital Trends Desk. Before joining the newsroom in 2022, she covered criminal justice issues at the Orlando Plain Dealer.
July 3 , 2025
Washington, D.C. — A routine inspection by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has revealed traces of Listeria monocytogenes in batches of fresh blueberries distributed across several states. While the agency has not issued a full recall, it is urging consumers to thoroughly wash produce and follow standard food safety practices.
In a statement meant to temper public concern, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. acknowledged the contamination but emphasized the overall safety of America’s food supply.
“The benefits of eating fresh berries far outweigh the adverse effects of ingesting toxic bacteria,” Kennedy said during a press briefing Tuesday. “In fact, a little listeria should be considered part of any well-rounded diet.”
The comment has sparked confusion and criticism among public health experts and food safety advocates, who caution that Listeria can cause severe illness, particularly in pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Dr. Anita Goldman, an infectious disease specialist at Johns Hopkins University, responded, “There is no safe level of Listeria exposure. While healthy adults might not experience symptoms, vulnerable populations are at serious risk.”
Despite the controversy, the FDA is not advising a halt to blueberry consumption. The agency is working with producers to identify the source of the contamination and prevent further exposure. No illnesses have yet been linked to the contaminated batches, according to current data.
Meanwhile, major grocery retailers have not pulled blueberries from shelves, instead posting advisories urging customers to wash all produce thoroughly and store berries at proper refrigeration temperatures.
This incident comes amid a broader national conversation on food safety oversight and transparency. While Kennedy’s comments have drawn headlines, HHS has yet to clarify whether the statement reflects a new policy stance or a rhetorical misstep.
For now, the FDA recommends consumers stay informed, practice good hygiene in the kitchen, and monitor updates as investigations continue.
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