A widespread listeria outbreak, traced to precooked pasta meals sold at major grocery chains nationwide, has resulted in multiple deaths and numerous hospitalizations. Federal health officials have confirmed the growing number of illnesses and fatalities, prompting extensive recalls and urgent warnings to consumers.
Key Takeaways
- A listeria outbreak linked to precooked pasta meals has led to at least six deaths and 27 illnesses across 18 states.
- Recalled products were supplied by Nate’s Fine Foods and sold at popular retailers including Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Kroger, and Sprouts Farmers Market.
- Listeriosis, the illness caused by Listeria monocytogenes, can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The Growing Outbreak
Federal health officials have reported a significant increase in cases linked to a listeria outbreak originating from precooked pasta meals. As of recent updates, the outbreak has affected 27 individuals across 18 states, with six confirmed deaths and one pregnancy-associated illness resulting in fetal loss. Of those who fell ill, 25 required hospitalization.
The affected pasta meals were supplied by Nate’s Fine Foods and distributed to major grocery retailers nationwide, including Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Kroger, Albertsons, and Sprouts Farmers Market. Recalls for various pasta dishes, such as fettuccine, linguine, and farfalle, were initiated between June and October.
Understanding Listeria and Its Dangers
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium commonly found in soil and water that can contaminate food during processing. It thrives in unsanitary conditions and is not killed by refrigeration or freezing. When ingested, it can cause listeriosis, a serious infection.
While many infected individuals experience mild symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, the infection can be severe and life-threatening for vulnerable populations. Pregnant women are at risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and severe infections in newborns. Older adults and those with compromised immune systems are also highly susceptible to invasive listeriosis, which can lead to meningitis and death. Symptoms can appear from the same day of consumption up to 10 weeks later, though typically within two weeks.
Recalls and Consumer Warnings
Health authorities are urging consumers to thoroughly check their refrigerators and freezers for any recalled pasta meals. Products from brands like Trader Joe’s, Marketside, Home Chef, and Scott & Jon’s are among those affected. Consumers are strongly advised not to consume these products and to discard them or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
Additionally, it is crucial to clean refrigerators, containers, and any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled foods, as Listeria can survive and spread easily. Anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with listeriosis should contact a healthcare provider immediately and report their illness to health officials.
Sources
- Six Dead in Listeria Outbreak Linked to Pasta, The New York Times.
- 6 dead, 27 sick in 18 states – NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth, NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth.
- 6 dead, 25 hospitalized in nationwide listeria outbreak linked to precooked pasta meals, NBC News.
- New deaths reported in listeria outbreak linked to Trader Joe’s meals, San Francisco Chronicle.
- 7 dead, 27 sick from recalled pasta meals sold at major grocery chains, WOAI.