Listeria Outbreak: Major Retailers Recall Ready-to-Eat Pasta Meals After Four Deaths
A nationwide listeria outbreak has led to the recall of ready-to-eat pasta meals from major retailers, with four deaths and numerous hospitalizations reported across the US. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the outbreak in June, issuing a public health alert on September 25.
The outbreak has been linked to products sold at Walmart, Trader Joe's, Kroger, and Safeway near me. Recalled items include Safeway's ready-to-eat pasta salads, Trader Joe's Cajun-style blackened chicken breast fettuccine alfredo, and Walmart's Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce. Consumers are urged to avoid eating these products and return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
Listeria infections can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, convulsions, and gastrointestinal issues. Pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to severe illness or death. The CDC has confirmed 20 cases across 15 states, with deaths reported in Illinois, Michigan, Texas, and Utah. One pregnancy-associated illness resulted in a fetal loss.
The CDC advises consumers to thoroughly cook any ready-to-eat food that may be contaminated, and to follow proper food handling and storage guidelines. Retailers and manufacturers are cooperating with investigations, and affected products have been removed from shelves. Anyone who has eaten the recalled pasta meals and developed symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
