A concerning outbreak of Listeria has been linked to certain ready-to-eat pasta meals sold across the nation. At least 20 individuals have been affected, with four confirmed deaths, highlighting the severe implications of this contamination. The products in question were available at major retailers, Walmart and Trader Joe’s.
Specifically, the “Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce” from Walmart and “Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo” from Trader Joe’s have been identified as sources of the outbreak. Additionally, “Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine” and “Home Chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo” were recalled and removed from store shelves, though consumers are advised to check their freezers for these items.
Utah health officials have urged consumers to discard any remaining affected products or return them to the store of purchase. Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible for the outbreak, poses a significant risk, particularly for older adults, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems. Infection with Listeria can lead to symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, headaches, and gastrointestinal distress. For pregnant women, the risks are particularly acute, potentially resulting in miscarriages or stillbirths.
Symptoms of listeriosis typically develop within two weeks of consuming contaminated food, but they may appear as early as the day of exposure or as late as 10 weeks afterward. Health officials advise anyone exhibiting symptoms of listeriosis, within two months of eating the recalled products, to seek medical attention and mention the potential exposure to their healthcare provider.
This incident underscores the importance of food safety and vigilance regarding product recalls, which can help prevent further cases and ensure public well-being.