In a bid to protect consumers from potential health risks, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has introduced significant changes aimed at reducing contamination in fresh and frozen berries. This new strategy focuses on improving sanitation practices throughout the supply chain, from harvesting to processing. The initiative comes in response to numerous outbreaks linked to imported berries over the past few decades, despite no such incidents involving domestically grown produce in the last 35 years. The FDA's prevention strategy emphasizes hygiene and sanitation measures to mitigate the spread of enteric viruses like norovirus and hepatitis A, which can cause severe gastrointestinal issues.

The core of the FDA’s new approach centers on enhancing sanitary conditions across all stages of berry production. Experts highlight that berries, due to their delicate nature, often require manual harvesting, making them susceptible to contamination if proper hygiene protocols are not followed. Field workers must adhere to strict hygiene practices to prevent the transfer of pathogens. Additionally, facilities where berries are processed must implement stringent measures to avoid cross-contamination. Dr. Amesh Adalja, an infectious disease specialist, notes that while the individual risk from consuming a single berry is low, multiple outbreaks have been traced back to contaminated berries. Dr. Benjamin Chapman, a food safety expert, adds that once berries are contaminated, it becomes extremely difficult to remove the viruses without damaging the fruit.

Beyond the U.S., this issue has gained global attention. In 2024, a joint panel from the United Nations and World Health Organization identified contaminated frozen berries as one of the highest public health concerns worldwide. Recent outbreaks in the U.S. linked to organic strawberries from Mexico underscore the urgency of addressing this problem. These outbreaks have resulted in illnesses and hospitalizations across several states. Moreover, historical data shows that various types of berries have been recalled due to norovirus concerns, highlighting the persistent challenge of ensuring berry safety.

The FDA’s new strategy represents a proactive step toward safeguarding consumer health. By focusing on preventive measures rather than reactive recalls, the agency aims to reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks. Emphasizing hygiene and sanitation throughout the supply chain, this approach seeks to address the unique challenges posed by berry cultivation and processing. As experts continue to study how viruses persist on berries, these enhanced protocols offer a promising path forward in ensuring the safety of this popular superfood.