At least six people have died, and 25 have been hospitalized in a listeria outbreak affecting 18 states. This outbreak is linked to prepared pasta meals from Nate’s Fine Foods, distributed widely across the country, as reported by the CDC.
The recall began in June and includes a variety of products like pasta salads, shrimp scampi, and beef meatballs. Major grocery chains, including Kroger, Albertsons, and Walmart, have removed affected items from their shelves.
Recent updates from the CDC show an additional seven illnesses and two deaths since late September. Sadly, an infected pregnant woman also lost her baby. This underscores the severe risks associated with listeria, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and pregnant women.
What Products Are Recalled?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has identified several products involved in this outbreak. If you see any of these in your pantry, do not consume them:
- Sprouts Farmers Market Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad — Use-by dates: 10/10/25 to 10/29/25 (Sprouts Recall)
- Giant Eagle Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad — Expiration dates: 9/30/25 to 10/7/25 (Giant Eagle Recall)
- Kroger Deli Bowtie and Penne Pasta Salads — Sold between 8/29/25 and 10/2/25 (Kroger Recall)
- Scott & Jon’s Shrimp Scampi — Best by dates of March 2027 (Demers Food Group Recall)
- Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo — Best by dates of 9/20/25 to 10/10/25 (USDA Alert)
- Albertsons Store-Made Deli Pasta Salads — Sold through 10/4/25 (Albertsons Recall)
Where Has Listeria Spread?
Listeria cases have appeared in states like California, Florida, Texas, and Virginia, among others.
Understanding Listeria
Listeria is a bacteria commonly found in water and soil. It can grow in food, even when refrigerated. An infection, known as listeriosis, can be serious for those who are elderly, pregnant, or have weakened immune systems. In fact, it’s a leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the U.S.
Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Pregnant women might experience milder symptoms, but the infection can lead to serious complications for their babies. Symptoms often appear within two weeks of consuming contaminated food but can sometimes start much sooner or later.
What to Do If You Have These Products
If you’ve bought any recalled products, don’t eat them. Instead, throw them away or return them for a refund. It’s also wise to sanitize areas where these products may have been stored to prevent contamination.
For more information on listeria and food recalls, visit the CDC’s listeria page. This outbreak highlights the ongoing need for vigilance in food safety.
