Deadly listeria outbreak linked to Kroger and Walmart chicken alfredo products claims three lives and causes one tragic pregnancy loss, prompting an urgent nationwide recall.
Key Takeaways
- Listeria contamination in chicken alfredo fettuccine sold at Kroger and Walmart has caused 17 illnesses across 13 states, with 16 hospitalizations, 3 deaths, and 1 pregnancy loss.
- FreshRealm has recalled all affected products made before June 17, including Marketside and Home Chef branded chicken alfredo meals with specific best-by dates.
- Federal health officials are concerned contamination may still be occurring despite an earlier detection in March when the contaminated product was destroyed.
- The CDC warns that listeria poses serious risks to vulnerable populations, including older adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
- Consumers are urged to check their freezers and discard or return any potentially affected products immediately.
Deadly Outbreak Prompts Nationwide Recall
A dangerous listeria outbreak linked to popular ready-to-eat chicken alfredo fettuccine products has triggered an urgent nationwide recall after causing three deaths and one pregnancy loss. Federal health officials confirmed Tuesday that the contaminated products, sold at major retailers Kroger and Walmart, have sickened at least 17 people across 13 states since July, with 16 of those cases requiring hospitalization. FreshRealm, the manufacturer, has issued a recall for all potentially affected products manufactured before June 17, as investigators work to pinpoint the exact source of contamination that has struck multiple states with deadly consequences.
“A listeria food poisoning outbreak that has killed three people and led to one pregnancy loss is linked to newly recalled heat-and-eat chicken fettucine alfredo products sold at Kroger and Walmart, federal health officials said late Tuesday,” according to federal health officials.
The deadly outbreak has specifically been traced to Marketside branded meals sold at Walmart and Home Chef branded products available at Kroger stores. Health officials have identified deaths in Illinois, Michigan, and Texas, with the CDC warning that the actual number of affected individuals may be significantly higher than currently reported. Consumers who purchased these products are being strongly advised to check their freezers immediately and either discard the potentially contaminated items or return them to the place of purchase, as even products that appear normal can harbor the dangerous bacteria.
Previous Detection Failed to Prevent Outbreak
In a troubling development that raises questions about food safety protocols, officials revealed that the deadly listeria strain was actually detected during a routine inspection back in March. While that particular contaminated batch was reportedly destroyed before reaching store shelves, “federal health authorities now admit they are concerned that contamination persisted in the production facility,” according to The CDC, has explicitly they “are concerned that contamination is still occurring,” suggesting possible failures in sanitization procedures or ongoing environmental contamination that allowed the dangerous pathogen to continue infecting products for months after the initial detection.
The investigation has relied on shopper records and interviews to track cases, with health officials working to identify additional victims who may have consumed the contaminated products. The outbreak spans multiple states, highlighting the far-reaching distribution network of these popular convenience meals. This incident comes as federal officials are reportedly updating protocols to prevent future listeria outbreaks following several high-profile contamination cases in recent years that have exposed weaknesses in our food safety system and put American consumers at unnecessary risk.
Severe Health Risks for Vulnerable Populations
Listeria infections pose particularly serious risks for specific vulnerable populations, including older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women. The bacteria can cause severe illness and even death in these high-risk groups, with symptoms typically developing within two weeks of consumption but sometimes appearing as early as the same day or as late as 70 days after exposure. Initial symptoms often include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, but the infection can progress to more serious complications including meningitis, septicemia, and pregnancy complications including miscarriage and stillbirth.
“About 1,600 people get sick each year from listeria infections and about 260 die,” according to the CDC.
The CDC estimates approximately 1,600 listeria infections occur annually in the United States, resulting in around 260 deaths each year. This high mortality rate makes listeria one of the deadliest foodborne pathogens, despite being less common than other food contaminants. Health officials advise anyone who has consumed the recalled products and is experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention immediately, as prompt antibiotic treatment can help prevent the most severe outcomes. Pregnant women should be especially vigilant, as listeria can infect the fetus even if the mother experiences only mild symptoms or none at all.
