Health
Nationwide Listeria Recall: What to Know Now
Health Points
- Four deaths and 19 hospitalizations have been linked to a listeria outbreak tied to ready-to-eat pasta meals sold at major grocery chains.
- The recall involves Marketside, Home Chef, and Trader Joe’s pasta meals nationwide, as well as pasta salads at Albertsons Companies.
- Listeria is particularly dangerous for older adults, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women.
A nationwide listeria outbreak connected to packaged pasta meals has resulted in serious illness and deaths across 15 states. The CDC now reports 20 illnesses, 19 hospitalizations, and four deaths, with investigations ongoing as more products are recalled.
The affected items include specific ready-to-eat chicken and beef pasta meals from popular brands like Marketside, Home Chef, and Trader Joe’s, widely available at stores such as Walmart, Kroger, and Trader Joe’s.
Several Albertsons Companies locations have recalled a variety of pasta salads as well, expanding the list of products impacted by this outbreak.
“Listeria is exceptionally risky for older individuals, people with compromised immune systems, and pregnant women,” health officials warn.
This bacteria can survive refrigeration and cause listeriosis, a foodborne illness with symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and confusion. In vulnerable groups, listeriosis can be life-threatening or lead to severe pregnancy complications.
If you have any of the recalled products, the best protection is to throw them away or return them to where you purchased them, rather than eating them or keeping them in your freezer.
Stay safe and protect your loved ones by staying informed about food recalls and paying close attention to product updates.
