Listeria Outbreak: CDC Warns of Contaminated Supplement Shakes

A multistate outbreak of Listeria infections linked to frozen, supplemental shakes has sickened at least 42 people across 21 states, resulting in at least 14 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While the outbreak initially came to light in February 2025, investigations into illnesses actually date back to 2018.

The contaminated products, branded Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes, were distributed nationwide to institutional settings, primarily long-term care facilities. These shakes were intended for individuals requiring soft diets, often due to medical necessity. Importantly, these products were not available for purchase by the general public.

On February 24, 2025, the CDC initially reported 38 infections, with 37 hospitalizations and 12 deaths. By May 16, 2025, the number of reported illnesses had increased to 42, with 41 hospitalizations and a revised death toll of 14. The outbreak investigation was officially closed on May 16, 2025.

Understanding Listeria and the Outbreak

Listeria monocytogenes is a particularly hardy bacterium capable of surviving for extended periods on surfaces, contributing to the prolonged duration of this outbreak. The CDC notes that Listeria outbreaks often last for several years due to this resilience.

Initial investigations by the CDC, beginning in 2018 with continued scrutiny in 2021 and 2023, were unable to pinpoint the source of the infections beyond identifying that the illnesses occurred in long-term care facilities. It was through environmental testing and whole genome sequencing that the source was ultimately identified in 2025.

The affected shakes were manufactured by Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. In Fort Wayne, Indiana, and distributed by Lyons Magnus under the Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brand names. Both Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco initiated recalls of all supplement shakes under their brands within shelf life following the identification of the contamination.

Who is Most at Risk?

Individuals aged 65 and older are disproportionately affected by this outbreak, with ages of those infected ranging from 43 to 101 years. The CDC emphasizes that Listeria poses a greater risk to older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. In these populations, the infection is more likely to spread beyond the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a severe condition known as invasive listeriosis.

For pregnant women, Listeria infection can result in pregnancy loss, premature birth, or life-threatening infection in the newborn. In older adults and immunocompromised individuals, invasive listeriosis often leads to hospitalization and, in some cases, death.

Symptoms and What to Do

Symptoms of Listeria infection typically begin within two weeks of consuming contaminated food, although the onset can range from the same day to as late as 10 weeks after exposure. Symptoms vary depending on the individual. Pregnant women may experience fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Other individuals may present with fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.

The CDC advises that, as the recalled products are no longer available on the market, individuals should not consume any recalled products if they are still in their possession. Any recalled shakes should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase. The CDC recommends thoroughly cleaning refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled products, as Listeria can survive refrigeration and spread easily.

Individuals who have consumed the recalled shakes and are experiencing symptoms are urged to seek medical attention immediately. State health departments can provide additional information regarding cases within specific states.

Ongoing Monitoring and Information

The CDC continues to monitor food safety threats and provides resources for healthcare professionals and the public regarding Listeria infection. More information about Listeria, including symptoms, risks, and prevention, can be found on the CDC’s website.