A Deadly Pasta Outbreak: The Numbers Are Rising
The recent listeria outbreak linked to prepared pasta meals has taken a tragic turn, claiming the lives of six individuals and affecting over two dozen others across the nation. This alarming situation has health officials concerned, and the numbers continue to rise.
As of late October, the outbreak has left a trail of devastation, with six deaths and 27 hospitalizations reported. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been closely monitoring the situation, and their latest update paints a concerning picture. One of the victims was a pregnant woman, highlighting the vulnerability of certain populations to this deadly pathogen.
The outbreak has spread across 18 states, including California, Florida, and Illinois, among others. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been tracking the situation closely and has provided regular updates. Since the last CDC report on September 25, 2025, there have been seven new cases and two additional deaths, a stark reminder of the ongoing threat.
The Origin and Spread
The outbreak's origins can be traced back to June 2025, when listeria concerns led to the recall of several brands of ready-to-eat chicken fettuccine Alfredo meals. These meals, produced by FreshRealm Inc. and sold under popular brands like Home Chef at Kroger and Marketside at Walmart, were the initial source of the outbreak.
FreshRealm's response was to begin testing pasta samples, and in mid-September, the results confirmed the presence of listeria. Further testing revealed that the strain matched the one found in the previously recalled chicken Alfredo meal. This discovery led to the recall of two more products: Marketside Linguine With Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce and Trader Joe's Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo.
What's intriguing is that these products shared a pasta supplier, Nate's Fine Foods, which supplies pre-cooked pasta and grains to the food service industry. Nate's expanded its recall in late September to include other batches of pre-cooked pasta, including fettuccine, linguine, and farfalle, after a sample tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes.
The Recall and Its Impact
The recalls extended beyond these initial products, with several pre-made pasta salads and heat-and-eat noodle dishes sold at various retailers, including Trader Joe's, Albertsons, and Kroger, being pulled from shelves in early October. Nate's Fine Foods issued a statement, apologizing for any concern caused and assuring the public of their commitment to safety.
The FDA is working closely with Nate's to determine if further recalls are necessary. Health officials advise customers who purchased any of these meals to dispose of them and thoroughly clean their refrigerators, containers, and any surfaces that may have come into contact with the food. The recalled products, with use-by dates earlier than October 10, are more likely to be found in customers' homes than on store shelves.
One of the recalled products with a longer shelf life is a frozen meal, Scott & Jon's Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Bowls, which has a best-by date in March 2027. Retailers have removed this product from their shelves, but it's essential to remain vigilant.
Understanding Listeria and Its Impact
Listeria infection, or listeriosis, poses a significant threat to pregnant individuals, newborns, adults over 65, and those with weakened immune systems. While pregnant women may experience mild symptoms like fever and fatigue, listeria can lead to miscarriages, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns. Symptoms can range from fever and muscle aches to gastrointestinal issues, confusion, and loss of balance.
Confirming the scope of an outbreak can be challenging, as some individuals recover without medical intervention. For those who seek medical care, it can take several weeks to determine if their illness is part of an outbreak. The CDC has interviewed 13 individuals affected by the outbreak, and seven of them reported consuming pre-cooked meals, with four specifically mentioning chicken fettuccine Alfredo.
A Call to Action
If you experience any symptoms of listeriosis, the CDC and FDA urge you to contact your healthcare provider and report your symptoms. You can also report any adverse health effects to the FDA online. This outbreak is a stark reminder of the importance of food safety and the potential impact on vulnerable populations.
The United States has witnessed several listeria outbreaks in the past year, with deli meat and baked goods being implicated. These incidents highlight the need for improved sanitation practices and heightened awareness among consumers and industry professionals alike.
As we navigate this ongoing outbreak, it's crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions. The impact of listeria is severe, and we must work together to prevent further tragedies.
