Deadly Listeria Outbreak Linked To Popular Grocery Stores
A listeria outbreak connected to ready-to-eat pasta meals sold at major retailers such as Walmart, Kroger and Trader Joe’s has expanded. Health officials report at least 20 illnesses, 19 hospitalizations and four deaths across 15 states.
CDC Confirms Growing Number Of Cases
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed in a September 26 update that the outbreak continues to spread. One additional death and several new illnesses have been reported, highlighting the ongoing risk to consumers.
Recall Began With Chicken Alfredo Meals
The outbreak was first flagged in June when food manufacturer FreshRealm voluntarily recalled certain chicken fettuccine alfredo products due to potential listeria contamination. Since then, more products have been added to the recall list.
Beef Meatball Pasta Also Implicated
Preliminary testing now links beef meatball marinara linguine meals to the outbreak. These dishes, sold under the Marketside brand, have been available nationwide through Walmart stores and are under investigation by public health officials.
Trader Joe’s Meals Added To Safety Alert
Trader Joe’s has also been affected. Its Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo has been included in the recall due to possible contamination. Shoppers are urged to check package labels and “best by” dates for safety.
Why Listeria Is So Dangerous
Listeria is a bacteria that thrives in water, soil and even refrigerated conditions. While healthy individuals may only experience mild illness, it poses severe risks for older adults, pregnant women, newborns and those with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms To Watch For
Listeria infection, or listeriosis, can cause fever, muscle aches, fatigue, vomiting and confusion. In pregnant women, infection can lead to miscarriage, premature birth or life-threatening illness in newborns. Symptoms can appear up to 10 weeks after exposure.
Full List Of Affected Products
Recalled products include various sizes of Marketside Chicken Alfredo and Beef Meatball Linguine, Home Chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo and Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Alfredo. Consumers should check establishment numbers and expiration dates.
What To Do If You Purchased These Meals
The CDC urges consumers not to eat the recalled items. Products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Even frozen packages should be discarded to prevent accidental exposure.
Investigation Still Ongoing
Federal and state health agencies continue to investigate the source of the contamination. In the meantime, FreshRealm’s customer service is available at 888-244-1562 for questions regarding the recall and food safety concerns.
