Urgent Recall: Deadly Listeria Outbreak Triggers Warning for Ready-to-Eat Fettuccine Alfredo Meals

Some ready-to-eat chicken fettuccine Alfredo meals sold at Kroger and Walmart are under a voluntary recall due to a listeria outbreak. This outbreak has been linked to 17 reported illnesses, three deaths, and one fetal loss. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is investigating the issue, which has been connected to products made by FreshRealm, Inc. under the Home Chef and Marketside brands.

Consumers who have purchased these meals should not eat them. The FSIS recommends throwing them away or returning them to where they were bought. FreshRealm initiated the recall as a precaution, stating they have not received any reports of illness tied directly to the product. They emphasized their commitment to food safety.

The FDA has indicated that, as of June 2023, individuals in 13 states became ill after consuming these meals. Of the 17 cases being looked into, 16 people were hospitalized, and there were three associated deaths. There’s also one case of a pregnancy-related illness that resulted in fetal loss.

The current strain of listeria was initially detected in sick individuals from August 2022 to May 2023. It was later found in a FreshRealm facility during routine testing. While the specific source of the contamination has not been pinpointed, the FDA and FSIS continue to investigate.

Consumers should be mindful of the following products:

• MARKETSIDE GRILLED CHICKEN ALFREDO WITH FETTUCCINE (32.8 oz) with a best-by date of 06/27/25 or earlier.
• MARKETSIDE GRILLED CHICKEN ALFREDO WITH FETTUCCINE (12.3 oz) with a best-by date of 06/26/25 or earlier.
• HOME CHEF Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo (12.5 oz) with a best-by date of 06/19/25 or earlier.

Listeria can cause severe symptoms including fever, muscle aches, and confusion. It poses serious risks to pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. If listeriosis occurs, antibiotics are used for treatment.

Food safety experts stress the importance of following recalls and staying informed about potential hazards. For further information, you can visit the FSIS web page on food safety.

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