Another case of Hepatitis A is likely to be linked to the consumption of Fruzio Mixed Berries products, says the Ministry for Primary Industries.

The berries are currently the subject of an MPI-directed recall and, if confirmed, it would bring the total number of people who have contracted Hepatitis A after eating the product to five.

The Ministry for Primary Industries says another case of Hepatitis A discovered yesterday is likely linked to the consumption of Fruzio Mixed Berries products. Photo: File

Plant food and environment director Peter Thomson says they was alerted to the case following an investigation by the Ministry of Health and Environmental Science and Research yesterday.

'In the new case, the person ate the berries in late October and reported symptoms at the beginning of this month,” explains Peter. 'The person was briefly hospitalised for observation, but released the same day.

'The next step is to have the virus tested to see if it is the same strain as that in the four other Hepatitis A cases. The Ministry of Health is working on this now and expects results at the end of this week or early next week.”

Peter says the ministry has an extensive investigation and work programme underway in relation to frozen berries.

A key focus is on continuing forensic examination of the supply chain. Last week the ministry established an increased surveillance programme, including testing imported frozen berries at the border.

Given the incubation period can be between 15-50 days, it is not unexpected that a new case of Hepatitis A potentially linked to these berries has been notified, says Peter.

'In the meantime, our advice about all other imported frozen berries stays the same. People should wash their hands before eating and preparing food.

'Anyone who is concerned should briefly boil any imported frozen berries before eating them, or ensure cooking exceeds 85 degrees Celsius for one minute.

'Elderly persons and those with chronic liver damage should avoid imported frozen berries that have not been heat treated,” says Peter.

PRODUCTS UNDER RECALL:

• Fruzio Mixed Berries 1kg and 500g products, which contains strawberries and blackberries
• Fruzio IQF Strawberry 1kg
• Fruzio IQF Blackberry 1kg
• Fruzio IQF 3 Mixed Berry 1kg (blackberries, strawberries and blueberries).

If you are concerned about a potential risk to yours or the health others, seek advice from a medical practitioner or call the Ministry of Health's Healthline on 0800 61 11 16.

People concerned about the safety of food products should contact the MPI consumer helpline on 0800 00 83 33.