FDA believes that few if any fresh raspberries from Guatemala remain on the U.S. market due to the short shelf life of the commodity. However, if any consumers, distributors, caterers, restauranteurs or retail establishments are holding fresh raspberries labeled as Product of Guatemala, they should not serve, sell or eat them. FDA is advising consumers who have recently eaten fresh raspberries from Guatemala and who are suffering diarrheal illness to see a doctor for diagnosis and possible treatment for cyclosporiasis. Cyclospora infects the small intestine and causes watery diarrhea with frequent, sometimes explosive bowel movements. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, substantial loss of weight, bloating, increased gas, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, low-grade fever and fatigue.
Symptoms usually develop about a week after consuming contaminated product.
Cyclospora infection can be successfully treated with appropriate antibiotics. FDA will convene a public meeting in July to review the science on Cyclospora on fresh produce and its control. The date and other details of that meeting will be made public when they are available.