The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its food safety alert concerning a multistate outbreak of Listeria infections, with new reports of additional cases and another product linked to the outbreak. The expanded alert includes three more illnesses and one additional death associated with the outbreak, prompting the CDC to underscore the severity of the issue.
The source of concern has broadened to include FreshRealm’s beef meatball marinara linguine meals. Recent tests by FreshRealm identified the same strain of Listeria in these meals as that found in previously recalled products. Additionally, linguini pasta used in these meals has also tested positive for Listeria. The company took action as of September 25, 2025, to hold the linguini pasta used in certain meal products. These affected products should no longer be available for purchase, but consumers are cautioned that they might still have them in their refrigerators or freezers.
As a precaution, the CDC advises individuals not to consume any of the affected foods. Anyone who might have these items in their home should clean their refrigerator, containers, and any surfaces the food may have touched, as Listeria bacteria can endure in cool environments and easily spread.
Certain groups are at heightened risk from Listeria, including pregnant women, individuals aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems. For these populations, Listeria can lead to a severe condition called invasive listeriosis, with symptoms that might include fever, muscle aches, and potentially serious outcomes such as loss of balance and convulsions. Symptoms typically appear within two weeks of consuming contaminated food but can vary.
The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a Public Health Alert for further information. Affected consumers or those seeking more details on the outbreak should contact their local health department for state-specific information.
The CDC emphasizes the critical nature of these precautions to protect vulnerable groups and to limit the spread of this harmful bacterium. For ongoing updates and information, the public is urged to monitor announcements from the CDC and FSIS.