FDA Warns Consumers After Listeria Outbreak Spreads Across 15 States
Federal health officials have issued an urgent warning after a deadly Listeria monocytogenes outbreak tied to frozen pasta meals has claimed four lives and sickened at least 18 people across 15 states. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have linked the contamination to frozen fettuccine Alfredo products sold under private labels at major retailers—including Trader Joe’s, Walmart, and Kroger.
What Products Are Affected?
Investigations traced the source to a single manufacturer: Real Good Foods Co. of Bolingbrook, Illinois. The company produces store-brand frozen pasta meals distributed nationwide. Affected items include:
- Trader Joe’s: “Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken” (12-oz packages)
- Walmart: “Great Value Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo”
- Kroger: “Private Selection Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken”
Consumers are urged to check freezer contents immediately and discard any suspect products—even if no one has gotten sick.
Outbreak Snapshot: Key Facts
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Deaths | 4 confirmed |
| Hospitalizations | 18 reported |
| States Affected | 15, including CA, TX, NY, FL, IL |
| Recall Issued | September 26, 2025 |
| Manufacturer | Real Good Foods Co., Bolingbrook, IL |
Why Listeria Is So Dangerous
Listeria is especially hazardous for pregnant women, newborns, adults over 65, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can take up to 70 days to appear and include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can cause sepsis or meningitis.
[INTERNAL_LINK:food safety recalls] experts emphasize that freezing does not kill Listeria—making contaminated frozen meals a silent threat.
Infographic: Recall Alert
Caption: Recalled frozen pasta meals linked to a multistate Listeria outbreak. (Credit: The New York Times)
