You’re strolling down the produce aisle, your eyes lock onto those plump, green, glossy avocados—your favorite ingredient for summer salads and brunch toasts. But wait! Hold your guacamole: a batch of these avocados has just been recalled due to contamination by toxic heavy metals. Suddenly, that creamy texture feels a bit less inviting. Should you worry about every fruit and veg in your cart? Let’s dive in, clear things up, and help you keep your meals both delicious and safe.
Which Avocados Are Affected—and Why?
The recall concerns Hass avocados distributed by the company PRIMOUEST IMPEX. If that name rings a bell, it’s probably because their avocados have been available across a variety of large supermarkets, local shops, and popular market stalls in France. Before you add avocados to your basket, it’s key to check if your recent purchase is part of this alert.
- Variety: Hass avocados, origin: Peru
- Sold between: March 31, 2025, and April 5, 2025
- Packaged: In 4 kg boxes
- Batch code: 1069/1 TRACE 031.011.01.01.002
The culprit: cadmium. This heavy metal isn’t something you want in your diet, not even as a once-in-a-while garnish.
Why Is Cadmium So Dangerous?
Cadmium is a heavy metal with a nasty reputation—and it’s well earned. When ingested regularly, cadmium can cause serious health problems including kidney damage, bone disorders, and increased risk of cancers. Even at low doses over long periods, cadmium can mess with your breathing and potentially affect your fertility. It’s hardly what you want as a secret ingredient in your next salad bowl.
The good news? If you have consumed these avocados just once or occasionally, there’s no immediate danger. So, don’t panic! It’s consistent and repeated exposure that poses a genuine health threat.
What Should You Do If You Bought These Avocados?
The recall affects avocados sold at many outlets: big supermarkets, neighborhood shops, wholesalers, caterers, and even some restaurants. If you’ve picked up avocados between March 31 and April 5, 2025, now’s a good time for a small investigative mission in your kitchen.
- Check the lot code and origin on your avocados. Look for the batch 1069/1 TRACE 031.011.01.01.002 from Peru.
- If you hold the offending lot, you can return your avocados to the seller and get a full refund—right up to April 25, 2025. Don’t let that date slip by!
Again, if you already ate one of these avocados, try not to worry—the health risk is minimal if your consumption was a one-off. For those who are regular avocado aficionados, it’s definitely worth being extra cautious and seeking a refund.
Smart Strategies for Safer, Tasty Meals
This recall might unsettle you, but don’t let it spoil your love of good food or the pleasure of healthy, homemade meals! It’s actually a great excuse to shake up your routine and discover other seasonal, risk-free delights.
- Swap out avocados with chickpeas! They’re loaded with plant-based protein and just as versatile—think fresh salads, homemade hummus, or even in soups. All the benefits, none of the risk. (And if someone tells you chickpeas can’t be cool, serve up your best homemade hummus and watch them change their minds!)
- Share your new discoveries. Cooking balanced meals with friends or family is always a moment of joy. Who knows, this avocado mishap might just lead you to stumble upon your new favorite recipe!
As a food writer, I encourage you to stay creative and positive in the kitchen. Let every food alert be a chance to boost your knowledge, exchange ideas, and enrich your culinary adventures—sometimes it’s the twists and surprises that inspire the best recipes.
In short: stay vigilant, keep experimenting, and don’t forget to check your avocados before digging in. Your next dish could very well be your healthiest—and most delicious—yet.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
