Walmart recalls apple juice: If you shop for groceries at Walmart, you may want to double-check your pantry. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a voluntary recall of Great Value apple juice due to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic. Here’s what you need to know about this recall and how it may affect you.

Recall details
Walmart has issued a recall for 9,535 cases of Great Value apple juice. The affected product comes in 8-ounce PET plastic bottles sold in six-packs. The recall, initiated on August 15, 2024, affects juices with the UPC code 0-78742-29655-5 and a “best before date of 12/28/2024.”

The recall has been upgraded to a Class II risk, meaning that while the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects, the likelihood of serious health consequences is considered low.

Health risks associated with inorganic arsenic
Inorganic arsenic is a known carcinogen that poses significant health risks. Long-term exposure can lead to serious health problems, including:

Skin disorders: rashes and skin lesions.
Cancer: Increased risk of skin, bladder and lung cancer.
Cardiovascular disease: Increased risk of heart disease.
Short-term exposure may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and numbness or burning in the extremities.

What you should do
If you purchased the affected Great Value apple juice, you should do the following:

Check your product: Look for bottles with the UPC code 0-78742-29655-5 and the date “Best by 12/28/24.”
Return for Refund: Return the recalled juice to Walmart for a full refund.
Dispose of the product: If returning the product is not possible, dispose of it safely to avoid consumption.
Understanding Arsenic Types
Arsenic occurs in two main forms:

Inorganic arsenic: Found in water and certain foods, it is highly toxic and proven to be carcinogenic.
Organic arsenic: Commonly found in seafood and is less harmful than its inorganic counterpart.
Company and dealer information
The recall was issued by Refresco Beverages US Inc., based in Tampa, FL. Walmart, as a retailer, is managing the voluntary recall process.

Affected countries and regions
Great Value Apple Juice was distributed in the following states and regions:

Alabama
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Kentucky
Massachusetts
Maryland
Maine
Michigan
Mississippi
North Carolina
New Hampshire
New Jersey
new York
Ohio
Pennsylvania
Puerto Rico
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Virginia
Vermont
West Virginia
Stay informed and take action
Monitoring food safety recalls is critical to protecting your health. If you have any of the recalled apple juice, make sure it is returned or disposed of properly. For ongoing updates or if you have any further questions, visit the FDA’s official website or contact Walmart customer service.

By educating yourself and taking prompt action, you can protect your health and ensure that you consume safe and uncontaminated products.