Deadly listeria outbreak linked to recalled pasta meals: 6 dead, dozens hospitalized across 18 states — Here’s what you need to know

A nationwide listeria outbreak has claimed six lives and sent dozens more to hospitals, with health authorities tracing the source to contaminated ready-to-eat pasta meals sold in stores across the United States.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 27 people in 18 states have been infected with the same strain of Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacterium that thrives even in refrigerated foods. Among the reported cases, 25 people were hospitalized, and six deaths were recorded in Hawaii, Illinois, Michigan, Oregon, Texas, and Utah. Tragically, one infection related to pregnancy resulted in the loss of a baby.

Health experts from the CDC, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) say the real number of cases could be even higher. Many people may have been infected but not tested, while others could recover before diagnosis.

Tracing the Source: FreshRealm and Nate’s Fine Foods Under Scrutiny

Investigations revealed that chicken fettuccine alfredo meals produced by FreshRealm were contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Following this, ingredients supplied by Nate’s Fine Foods, a California-based ready-to-eat food manufacturer, tested positive for the bacteria.

In response, Nate’s Fine Foods voluntarily recalled more than 245,000 pounds of pasta dishes, including several popular ready-to-eat pasta meals distributed nationwide. The affected products were reportedly available at major retailers such as Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Kroger, and Sprouts Farmers Market.

State and federal health officials are still investigating whether recent cases stem from previously recalled batches or from newly contaminated foods.

What Consumers Should Do

Health agencies are urging consumers to immediately check their refrigerators and freezers for recalled pasta products. Anyone who has purchased or consumed the meals should:

• Discard or return the recalled items to the point of purchase.

• Thoroughly clean refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that came into contact with the food, as Listeria can survive and spread even in cold temperatures.

• Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop after eating recalled foods.

Symptoms and Risks of Listeria Infection

Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious or life-threatening infections, particularly in pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Common symptoms include:

• Fever and muscle aches

• Nausea or diarrhea

• Headache or stiff neck

• Confusion or loss of balance

  
  
  

• Seizures in severe cases

For pregnant women, the infection poses additional risks, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or infection in newborns.

Symptoms can appear anytime between the same day and up to 10 weeks after exposure, making it difficult to immediately identify the cause.

Ongoing Investigation and Safety Advisory

The CDC reports that seven new illnesses and two additional deaths have been recorded since their last update, with cases continuing to emerge. Officials are urging the public to remain vigilant as more recalls may be announced in the coming weeks.

Health authorities emphasize that foodborne outbreaks like this highlight the importance of strict food safety practices at every stage of production and distribution. Consumers are advised to follow food recall updates on the CDC or FDA websites and stay informed about potential contamination warnings.

FAQs

1. What brand of pasta is linked to the Listeria outbreak?
The outbreak is linked to prepared pasta meals supplied by Nate’s Fine Foods and distributed under various labels, including products sold at Trader Joe’s, Kroger, Sprouts, and Walmart.

2. How many people have been affected?
As of now, 27 confirmed cases have been reported across 18 U.S. states, leading to six deaths and one pregnancy loss.

3. What should I do if I’ve eaten the recalled pasta?
If you experience symptoms such as fever, fatigue, or muscle pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Save the product packaging if possible for identification.

4. Can I still eat other pasta meals?
Yes, but ensure they are not part of the recall list. Always cook or reheat meals to proper temperatures and store foods correctly to minimize contamination risk.

5. Where can I find the official recall list?
Visit the CDC’s Listeria outbreak notice page or the FDA’s recall database for a full list of affected products and lot numbers.