WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a food safety alert in connection with an ongoing multistate Listeria outbreak tied to FreshRealm chicken fettuccine alfredo meals. Seventeen cases of Listeria infections have been reported across 13 states, leading to 16 hospitalizations and three fatalities. One pregnancy-associated case resulted in a fetal loss.
The illnesses, which date back to July 2024, have been traced to chicken alfredo meals sold under the Marketside and Home Chef brands at Kroger and Walmart locations nationwide. Recalled items, distributed through FreshRealm, were located in refrigerated sections but did not include frozen meals. The affected products, identified by establishment numbers “EST. P-50784,” “EST. P-47770,” or “EST. P-47718,” feature “best by” dates of June 19, 2025, through June 27, 2025.
FreshRealm initiated a nationwide recall on June 17, 2025. While these products have since been removed from shelves, the CDC advises consumers to discard any remaining items or return them to their point of purchase. Additionally, refrigerators, containers, and surfaces in contact with the products should be sanitized to prevent cross-contamination, as Listeria can spread and survive in refrigerated areas.
Listeria poses significant risks, particularly to individuals aged 65 or older, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, which can escalate to severe complications and invasive listeriosis in high-risk individuals. Pregnant individuals may face pregnancy loss or neonatal infections, while others could experience neurological symptoms or even death.
Anyone experiencing symptoms after consuming the recalled food should contact a healthcare provider immediately. For detailed state-related information, local health departments are available for inquiries.
The CDC and public health partners are continuing investigations to prevent further harm and ensure food safety nationwide.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.