Natierra Blueberry Urgent Recall: Product Has Too Much Lead, FDA Says

ACROSS AMERICA — Certain lots of Natierra Organic Freeze-Dried Blueberries sold nationwide are being recalled because they contain too much lead, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said in an urgent recall notice.

Heavy metal was detected in the two lots of berries, No. 2021363-1 and No. 2022026-1, with best-buy dates of December 2024 and December 2025, the notice said. The lot numbers are found in manufacturer details on the bottom right of the pouch. Click to see photos of the affected blueberries.

Lead is a natural occurring element in Earth’s crust that may contaminate fruits and vegetables during cultivation. Everyone is exposed to some lead in the course of daily living, according to the FDA. But no amount of lead exposure is considered safe, and the FDA said the blueberries should be discarded.

BrandStorm Inc., the company behind the Natierra brand and the voluntary recall, said it has not received any reports of anyone becoming ill.

Even low exposure can be associated with decreased intelligence in children, behavioral difficulties and learning problems, but it is dangerous to adults as well, according to research. Exposure to larger amounts of lead can lead to lead poisoning, which can affect nearly every bodily system, and people experiencing symptoms should go to the doctor immediately, according to the FDA.

“People with high blood levels of lead may show no symptoms, but the condition may cause damage to the nervous system and internal organs,” the recall notice stated. “Acute lead poisoning may cause a wide range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and bloody or decreased urinary output. Children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning.”

A Maryland lab detected the heavy metal content in the berries, which originated in Lithuania. The packing site is “actively working” to improve its food safety system by implementing mandatory bast testing for heavy metal, the FDA said.

Refunds to people who bought the blueberries can get refunds at the place of purchase, through the Natierra website or by email at salesadmin@BrandStormInc.com. Questions may be directed to 310-559-0259, from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. PDT.