Listeria Outbreak from Popular Meal Kit Kills 6, Hospitalizes 25
A listeria outbreak has been linked to precooked pasta meals, resulting in six fatalities and 25 hospitalizations. The issue was first reported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June and updated on October 30. The outbreak has been traced back to products from Nate’s Fine Foods, which are now recalled.
Details of the Outbreak
The recalled meal kits include:
- Sprouts Farmers Market smoked mozzarella pasta salad
- Scott & Jon’s shrimp scampi with linguini bowls
- Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo
- Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce
Additional products may also be impacted as investigations continue.
Impact on Consumers
New reported fatalities have come from Hawaii and Oregon. The outbreak has affected individuals across 18 states, including:
- California
- Florida
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Louisiana
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- North Carolina
- Nevada
- Ohio
- South Carolina
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
Health Risks Associated with Listeria
Nate’s Fine Foods emphasizes its commitment to food safety and announced the voluntary recall of select products following a potential link to the outbreak. Consumers are strongly advised against consuming these recalled products.
Symptoms of listeriosis include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Loss of balance
- Convulsions
These symptoms may be preceded by gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea.
Particularly vulnerable populations include pregnant women, for whom listeriosis can lead to severe complications like miscarriages and life-threatening infections for newborns.
Statistics on Listeria Infection
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States. Each year, approximately 1,250 individuals are diagnosed with listeriosis, leading to around 172 deaths.
Consumers should stay informed and monitor updates regarding this outbreak to protect their health and safety.
