recalled pasta meals listeria

Nationwide Recall of Pasta Meals

A recent Listeria outbreak has led to a voluntary recall of several ready-to-eat pasta meals sold across the United States. The affected products include chicken fettuccine Alfredo meals from brands such as Marketside and Home Chef.

The recall comes after health authorities linked these meals to a growing number of Listeriosis cases. Consumers who have purchased these products are advised not to eat them and to either discard the meals or return them to the store for a refund.

What Products Are Affected?

The recall covers specific product sizes and best-by dates, including:

Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine – 32.8-ounce trays with best-by date June 27, 2025, or earlier.

Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine and Broccoli – 12.3-ounce trays with best-by date June 26, 2025, or earlier.

Home Chef Heat & Eat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo – 12.5-ounce trays with best-by date June 19, 2025, or earlier.

These products were available in supermarkets nationwide, including large chains such as Walmart and Kroger.

Why the Recall Happened

Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria responsible for Listeriosis, can cause serious illness, especially in vulnerable populations. Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. Pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk and may experience severe complications.

Health officials reported at least 17 cases linked to these products across 13 states. Tragically, three deaths and one pregnancy-related loss have been associated with this outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have been actively investigating the situation.

Consumer Safety Measures

Authorities are advising consumers to take the following steps if they have purchased the affected meals:

Do Not Eat the Product: Even if the meal looks and smells normal, Listeria may still be present.

Dispose or Return: Throw the product away in a secure trash container or return it to the store for a refund.

Clean Surfaces: Wash refrigerators, storage containers, and surfaces that may have come in contact with the recalled products. Listeria can survive in cold temperatures and spread to other foods.

Seek Medical Advice: If you are in a high-risk group and consumed the product, contact your healthcare provider immediately, especially if you develop symptoms.

Understanding Listeria Risks

Listeria infections are rare but serious. Unlike other bacteria, Listeria can grow in refrigerated environments, which makes ready-to-eat meals particularly risky if contaminated. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable; infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns.

The elderly and those with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk of severe complications. For healthy individuals, Listeriosis may cause mild flu-like symptoms but can become dangerous if not addressed promptly.

Company Response and Precautionary Measures

The companies involved in the recall have acted quickly to remove affected products from shelves and notify consumers. Both FreshRealm and its retail partners have posted information on their websites and social media channels, providing details about affected products, lot numbers, and how to return them.

This proactive approach reflects the importance of transparency in food safety. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, conduct inspections, and work to prevent further cases.

The Role of Public Awareness

Public awareness is crucial during food recalls. Understanding product labels, best-by dates, and proper food storage can help reduce the risk of Listeria and other foodborne illnesses. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed through trusted sources such as the CDC, FDA, and official retailer communications.

Media coverage and public notices help ensure that affected products are quickly identified and removed from homes, reducing the risk of additional infections.

Looking Ahead

This recall serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring food safety, particularly for ready-to-eat meals. Advances in food production and packaging are important, but careful monitoring and quick responses to contamination are equally critical.

Consumers play an essential role by checking their purchases, following safety guidelines, and reporting any adverse reactions. Cooperation between manufacturers, regulatory agencies, and the public is key to minimizing risks and preventing future outbreaks.

Conclusion

The recent Listeria outbreak and recall of chicken fettuccine Alfredo meals highlight the importance of food safety awareness. While the recall may cause inconvenience, it serves a vital purpose in protecting public health.

By following guidance from health authorities and staying informed, consumers can reduce their risk of infection. The incident underscores the value of vigilance, transparency, and timely action in maintaining food safety across the nation.