Listeria Outbreak Prompts Widespread Pasta Salad & Prepared Meal Recalls
A multi-state listeria outbreak has triggered extensive recalls of pre-packaged pasta salads and prepared meals sold at major grocery chains across the nation. These recalls are a direct result of identifying the same strain of Listeria in pasta produced by NateS Fine Foods as was found in previously identified contaminated products.
FreshRealm, the California-based company responsible for producing the initial contaminated meals – chicken fettuccine Alfredo and meatball linguine - confirmed the link through genetic sequencing. Consequently, numerous retailers are proactively removing potentially affected items from shelves.
What You Need to Know About the Outbreak
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is collaborating with state health departments to pinpoint the source of the outbreak and determine the extent of the contamination. Investigations are also underway by the U.S. Food and Drug Governance (FDA) and the Agriculture Department.
If you’ve recently purchased pre-packaged pasta salads or similar prepared meals, it’s crucial to check your refrigerator and freezer immediately. Discard any recalled products or return them to the store where you bought them for a full refund.
Current Recalls - A Comprehensive List
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recalls announced to date. Remember to check the “best if used by” or sell-through dates carefully.
* Sprouts: Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad (deli service counter or Grab & Go section) – best-by dates Oct. 10 to Oct. 29.
* Giant Eagle: Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad – expiration dates Sept. 30 through Oct. 7.
* Kroger: Deli Bowtie and Penne Pasta Salads - sold aug. 29 through Oct. 2.
* Scott & Jon’s: Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Bowls (9.6 oz) – best if used by dates of March 12 & 13, and March 17 & 21, 2027.
* Trader Joe’s: Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo (16 oz plastic tray) – best if used by dates sept. 20, 24, 27, 28, oct. 1, 3, 5, 8, and 10.
* Albertsons: Store-made deli pasta salads – sell through dates from Sept. 8 to Oct. 4.
* Marketside: Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce (12 oz) – best-by dates Sept. 22, 24, 25, and sept. 29 to Oct. 1.
* Marketside: Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine (12.3 oz) – best-by date of June 26, 2025, or prior; and (32.8 oz) – best-by date of June 27, 2025, or prior.
* Home Chef: Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo (12.5 oz) – best-by date of June 19 or prior.
Understanding Listeria and Its Risks
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause a serious infection called listeriosis. While it typically affects older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems, anyone can become ill.
symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In severe cases, it can lead to hospitalization and even death. If you are experiencing these symptoms, especially after consuming a recalled product, seek medical attention immediately.
Staying Informed and Protecting Yourself
The FDA and CDC will continue to update thier websites with the latest facts regarding this outbreak and any additional recalls. You can find more details at these resources:
* FDA: https://www.fda.gov/
* CDC:
