Washington, D.C. – Federal health officials have expanded a nationwide Listeria monocytogenes outbreak investigation after 27 confirmed illnesses and 6 deaths across 18 states were linked to pre-cooked pasta used in ready-to-eat meals sold by major retailers including Kroger, Trader Joe’s, Jewel-Osco, Albertsons, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Giant Eagle.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the outbreak is tied to pasta products supplied by Nate’s Fine Foods, Inc., based in California. On September 30, 2025, the company expanded its recall to include multiple pasta varieties after samples tested positive for Listeria.
Outbreak Case Overview (as of October 30, 2025):
- Total cases: 27
- States affected: 18 (including California, Texas, Illinois, New York, Michigan, and Florida)
- Hospitalizations: 25
- Deaths: 6
- Pregnancy-related cases: 1 fetal loss reported
Officials warn that more cases may emerge, as Listeria symptoms can appear up to 10 weeks after consuming contaminated food.
Recalled Products Include:
- Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo (16 oz) – “Best if used by” dates from Sept. 20–Oct. 10, 2025
- Kroger Deli Pasta Salads (Bowtie & Penne) – Sold Aug. 29–Oct. 2, 2025
- Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo & Linguine Meals – Sold nationwide at Walmart (various best-by dates through Oct. 1, 2025)
- Scott & Jon’s Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Bowls (9.6 oz) – “Best if used by” March 12–21, 2027
- Home Chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo (12.5 oz) – Best-by June 19, 2025, or earlier
- Sprouts Farmers Market and Giant Eagle Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salads – Sold through late September and early October
- Albertsons Deli Pasta Salads – Sold Sept. 8–Oct. 4, 2025
Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers for any of these recalled meals and to throw them away immediately. Products were sold in refrigerated or frozen sections and may appear under store-brand or private-label packaging.
Listeriosis Symptoms and Risks:
Symptoms of infection may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. Severe illness can cause headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or convulsions.
High-risk groups include pregnant women, newborns, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems.
Pregnant women are advised to seek medical care if they experience fever or flu-like symptoms after consuming recalled foods, as Listeria infection can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or newborn infection.
Ongoing Investigation:
Federal and state agencies are working to identify whether additional products or suppliers may be involved. The FDA and CDC are coordinating with Nate’s Fine Foods, FreshRealm, and affected retailers to monitor recalls and prevent further illnesses.
Consumers who experience symptoms of listeriosis are urged to contact their healthcare provider and may report cases directly to the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator or CDC’s Foodborne Illness Reporting System.
