A listeria outbreak with lethal consequences has been linked to chicken fettuccine alfredo products sold at Kroger and Walmart. According to health officials, at least three deaths and one pregnancy loss have been reported. The outbreak has affected at least 17 individuals across 13 states, starting as far back as last July. Illinois health authorities have confirmed at least one case within the state.
In coordination with the recent findings, FreshRealm, a notable food company with locations in California, Georgia, and Indiana, has issued a recall for products produced before June 17. The recall includes multiple specific tray packages from the Marketside and Home Chef brands, found in the refrigerated sections of retail stores. Fox Business highlighted the urgency conveyed by the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service, advising, "FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers."
On inspection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) pinpointed the listeria strain in samples of chicken fettuccine alfredo. These were tested during a routine inspection back in March, and thankfully, the contaminated product was destroyed before reaching store shelves. The outbreaks have spurred continuous reports of illness, leading to increasing concern that contamination events are ongoing.
Consumers are being warned not to eat the recalled products and are advised to either throw these away or return them to the store of purchase. The listeria bacteria presents a significant health risk, particularly to older adults, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include but are not limited to fever, muscle aches, and confusion. NBC Chicago has reported that per CDC findings, around 1,600 people contract listeria annually, and approximately 260 cases result in death.
With cases reported from Florida to Nevada, the reach of this outbreak is wide, and federal agencies are collaborating to increase preventative measures against listeria incidents, following several high-profile outbreaks in previous years. The CDC continues to monitor the situation and track reports of listeria-related illness, emphasizing the seriousness of this food safety issue.
