An outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes linked to salads and ready-to-eat pasta dishes has caused at least six deaths in the United States, according to information published by the CDC and FDA. The investigations point to refrigerated products sold in large chains, while batches and suppliers involved are being traced.
To date, health authorities have counted 27 people affected in 18 states between August 1 and October 16, with Two recent deaths in Hawaii and OregonThe CDC warns that the actual number could be higher because not all patients are tested.
What is known about the outbreak
The working hypothesis is that the pollution originated in Ready-to-eat foods with pastasuch as prepared salads and refrigerated dishes. If these types of products become contaminated, they can travel through different distribution chains and reach multiple states.
In the epidemiological interviews, more than half of the patients reported having consumed pre-cooked mealsWithin that group, 57% mentioned having eaten chicken with fettuccine AlfredoThe consumption pattern reinforces the focus on refrigerated pasta recipes.
Those affected indicated that they bought these items at the refrigerated section from supermarkets like Walmart and Kroger, and in some cases in delicatessens with pasta salads prepared in other stores.
In addition to the recent cases in Hawaii and Oregon, the CDC has reported previous deaths in Illinois, Michigan, Texas and Utah, and reported a pregnancy-related case with fetal lossThis underscores the seriousness of listeriosis in vulnerable populations.
Affected products and supply chains
At the beginning of October, the FDA asked removal of several pasta dishes The products, distributed under various brands—including Trader Joe's and Kroger—are being recalled while batch and supplier tracing is completed. This preventative measure aims to remove any potentially contaminated products from the market.
Part of the immobilized product comes from the manufacturer Nate's Fine Foods (Roseville, California), with around 245.000 pounds withdrawn Since September, according to official communications. Collaboration between the FDA, CDC, and state authorities continues to determine the true extent of the outbreak.
- Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo trays, 926g (32,8oz), with Expiration date June 27th or earlier.
- Pasta salad with smoked mozzarella from Sprouts Farmers Market, with expiration dates from October 10 to 29.
- Pasta salad with smoked mozzarella from Giant eagle, with expiration dates from September 30 to October 7.
- Pasta salads penne and bow tie from the deli section at Kroger stores, sold between August 29 and October 2.
- Bowls of linguine with garlic shrimp Scott & Jon 9,6 oz, with best before date March 12, 13 and 17, 2027.
- 16 oz trays of Fettuccine Alfredo with Cajun-style blackened chicken breast Trader Joe's, with dates September 20, 24, 27 and 28 and October 1, 3, 5, 8 and 10.
- Pasta salads prepared in a delicatessen Albertsons, sold from September 8 to October 4.
- Linguini Marketside with meatballs and marinara sauce of 340g, with expiry dates of September 22, 24, 25, 29 and 30, and October 1.
- Grilled Alfredo Chicken Marketside (350 g and 930 g), with expiration dates of June 26 and 27 or earlier, depending on the format.
- Home chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo (350g), with a best before date of June 19th or earlier.
Measures taken by the authorities and recommendations
Teams public health CDC and FDA officials continue to collect tickets, traceability information, and lab results to determine if there are any cases. more related products to the outbreak. The analysis includes environmental and food samples recovered from homes.
Consumers are urged to Avoid refrigerated salads and pasta If you have products of dubious origin, check your refrigerator and discard any affected batches. If you have products included in the recalls, the following is recommended: do not consumereturn them to the store or follow the manufacturer's instructions for a refund.
It is worth remembering that Listeria can survive the coldIt is recommended to thoroughly clean the refrigerator, shelves and utensils that have been in contact with suspicious packaging or food, prioritizing appropriate hygiene solutions.
Risks and symptoms to watch for
La listeriosis can cause invasive infection, especially in pregnant womenelderly people and patients with weakened immune systems. In these groups, the clinical course can be more severe.
The most common symptoms include feverchills, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If compatible symptoms appear after consuming salads or potentially contaminated refrigerated pasta, it is recommended consult a professional and follow the prescribed treatment.
Situation in Europe and context for Spain
This episode in the US coincides with Recent notifications in Europe related to cheeses from Spain and France, which have resulted in two deaths and the distribution of suspected products to more than thirty countries. Although it is different food chainsThe parallel reinforces the need to follow official alerts.
For audiences in Spain and the rest of Europe, the recommendations include heed the warnings from the authorities, to take extreme hygiene measures and avoid consuming chilled ready meals of uncertain origin while the international investigation continues.
The investigation consistently points to refrigerated salads and pasta as the source of the outbreak, with 27 cases and six deaths In the US, recalls are underway and batch tracking is being conducted at several chains; while awaiting final conclusions, the most prudent course of action is to check products at home and stay up to date on the health alerts and prioritize food security.
