A significant listeria outbreak has emerged in the United States, leading to 27 reported illnesses across 18 states since it began in August 2024. As a result of this outbreak, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that 25 people have been hospitalized. Tragically, as a result, six people have paid with their lives. The outbreak is linked to several recalled ready-to-eat pasta products distributed by Nate’s Fine Foods Inc. This close connection has been alarming to health officials and consumers alike.
The outbreak has prompted the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to announce recalls of multiple prepared meal products sold in both refrigerated and frozen sections of grocery stores. Now, health officials are continuing to stress consumer awareness regarding the products that are under threat. They’re asking people to look in their refrigerators and freezers for any recalled products.
Details of the Outbreak
In July, the CDC warned of an increase in listeriosis cases. In the past two months, more than 30 people have been hospitalized from this outbreak. The latest reported onset of illness was October 16, 2024. Invasive listeriosis is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. This is especially true for pregnant women, newborns, those with weakened immune systems, and adults over 65 years.
“The true number of sick people in this outbreak is also likely higher than the number reported. This is because some people recover without medical care and are not tested for Listeria,” – CDC
Infection with the bacteria, listeriosis leads to the deaths of about 172 US residents each year. Only around 1,250 US residents are diagnosed with listeriosis each year. Now the CDC and state health departments are joining forces to collect data. They’re hoping to learn whether infected people ate any of the contaminated foods that have been recalled.
Affected Products and Recalls
Notable items involved in the recall include:
- Sprouts Farmers Market Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad: Use-by dates range from October 10, 2025, through October 29, 2025.
- Scott & Jon’s Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Bowls: Use-by dates include March 2027 and June 26, 2025, or prior.
- Giant Eagle Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad: Expiration dates range from September 30, 2025, through October 7, 2025.
- Kroger Stores Deli Bowtie and Penne Pasta Salads: Recalled for products sold from August 28, 2025, through October 2, 2025.
- Home Chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo: Best by date of June 19, 2025, or prior.
“Consumers who are unsure if they have purchased this product are advised to contact their retailer,” – FDA
According to Nate’s Fine Foods Inc. Nathan’s Fine Foods Inc. specified that it does not sell affected products directly to retailers. The company is currently working closely with the FDA and its customers to determine if further recalls are required.
Safety Recommendations
Health officials continue to remind the public to follow food safety practices, especially during this outbreak. The CDC urges consumers to thoroughly check their refrigerators and freezers for recalled food products. Despite claims to the contrary, they recommend that you stop eating these industrialized products. Thoroughly clean your refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated foods.
“Listeria can survive in the refrigerator and can easily spread to other foods and surfaces,” – CDC
Officials recommend that anyone who consumed these contaminated products seek medical attention immediately. If you think you may have listeriosis symptoms, don’t delay—get care right away. Early symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea.
“Clean your refrigerator, containers, and surfaces that may have touched the affected foods,” – CDC
