Washington, D.C. – A deadly multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes has been linked to prepared pasta meals sold under FreshRealm and Trader Joe’s labels, according to federal health officials.
According to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 20 people in 15 states have fallen ill. Nineteen have been hospitalized, and four deaths have been reported. One case involved a pregnant mother whose illness resulted in fetal loss.
FreshRealm Inc. confirmed on September 27 that its linguine pasta samples tested positive for the same strain of Listeria that triggered a recall of chicken alfredo meals earlier this year. The products were sold under the Marketside and Trader Joe’s brands. USDA FSIS updated its public health alert September 26 to include 16-ounce trays of Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo with “best if used by” dates of September 20, 24, and 27, 2025.
The pasta supplier recalled certain lots of precooked pasta on September 25 after FreshRealm testing revealed contamination. While the supplier does not sell directly to retail, FDA officials say additional recalls may follow as investigations continue.
Listeria can cause severe illness, particularly in pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea, often beginning within a few days of exposure.
FDA and its partners are urging consumers to check their refrigerators and avoid eating recalled meals. Updates will be issued as more information becomes available.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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