A multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections is currently under investigation, linked to several ready-to-eat food products. As of , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have reported an expansion of the outbreak, with three additional illnesses and one additional death reported. The outbreak originally began with chicken fettuccine alfredo meals, and has now expanded to include FreshRealm beef meatball marinara linguine meals.
Outbreak Details and Affected Products
The initial outbreak investigation, beginning in , identified Fresh & Ready Foods, LLC as the source of several recalled ready-to-eat foods, including sandwiches and snack items. These products were identified by “Use By” dates ranging from to , and sold under the brand names Fresh & Ready Foods, City Point Market Fresh Food to Go, and Fresh Take Crave Away. These products are no longer available for sale.
More recently, FreshRealm held beef meatball marinara linguine meals after company testing revealed the same outbreak strain of Listeria as previously recalled products on . Pasta used in these meals has also tested positive for Listeria, with further investigation pending to confirm if This proves the same strain causing illness.
On , FreshRealm also held linguini pasta used in certain meal products. While these products are no longer available for sale, consumers may still have them in their refrigerators or freezers.
Illnesses and Impact
As of , a total of seventeen people have been sickened across thirteen states. Of these, sixteen have required hospitalization, and tragically, three deaths have been reported in Illinois, Michigan, and Texas. A pregnant woman infected with the outbreak strain experienced fetal loss.
The states reporting cases include Texas (3 cases), Michigan and Louisiana (2 cases each), and Nevada, Minnesota, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida (1 case each). The CDC notes that the true number of illnesses is likely higher, and the outbreak may extend beyond the currently known states.
Symptoms of Listeriosis
Listeria infection, known as listeriosis, can present with varying symptoms depending on the individual. Symptoms typically begin within two weeks of consuming contaminated food, though they can appear as early as the same day or as late as 10 weeks after exposure.
Mild symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, tiredness, vomiting, and diarrhea. More severe symptoms, which require immediate medical attention, include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.
Listeria poses a particularly serious risk to certain populations. Pregnant women, individuals aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to severe illness. Pregnant women may experience fever, muscle aches, and tiredness, but even a mild illness can lead to pregnancy loss, premature birth, or serious illness or death in newborns. Older adults and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of hospitalization and death.
What Make sure to Do
The CDC and FDA recommend the following precautions:
- Do not eat recalled products. Discard any recalled items immediately or return them to the place of purchase.
- Clean thoroughly. Clean and sanitize refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled foods. Listeria can survive in refrigerated temperatures and easily spread.
- Seek medical attention. If you have experienced symptoms after consuming the affected foods, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
What Businesses Should Do
Foodservice customers and retailers who have purchased or received the recalled products should carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have been in contact with them. Following FDA’s safe handling and cleaning advice is crucial to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is ongoing, and public health officials continue to monitor the situation closely. Consumers are advised to stay informed about food recalls and outbreaks to protect themselves from foodborne illness. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
