Washington ( trfnews.i234.me ) — Federal Food Safety Warning
Federal officials are warning consumers to discard or return certain ready-to-eat pasta meals sold at major grocery chains after a deadly listeria outbreak. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert after products tested positive for contamination.
The recall includes Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce, sold in 12-ounce trays at Walmart, and Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo in 16-ounce trays. Both were made by FreshRealm, Inc.
The FDA said early testing linked the contaminated pasta to a previous outbreak that affected 15 states. Genetic sequencing confirmed the listeria strain matches the same one found in earlier FreshRealm chicken alfredo recalls.
Outbreak Linked to Four Deaths
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed that four people have died and at least 20 others were sickened in the outbreak. Officials urge consumers to check their refrigerators and freezers immediately.
Recalled Product Details
- Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara: Best by dates between Sept. 22 and Oct. 1, 2025; marked with “EST. 50784” or “EST. 47718.”
- Trader Joe’s Cajun Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo: Best by Sept. 20, 24, or 27, 2025; marked with “P-45288.”
- Albertsons/Safeway Deli Items: Basil pesto bowtie salad, spinach bowtie pasta salad, and other ready-to-eat meals made by FreshRealm.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Listeria can cause severe illness, especially in pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and balance problems. Pregnant women may face miscarriage or stillbirth.
What Consumers Should Do
Do not eat these recalled meals. Throw them away or return them to the store for a refund. Even though items were removed from shelves, they may still be in home refrigerators. Consumers with questions can contact Nate’s Fine Foods at 916-677-7303 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. PST).
Stay informed by checking updates from the USDA, CDC, and FDA Recall Database.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
