Listeria outbreak linked to chicken fettuccine alfredo kills three and causes pregnancy loss

In the United States, an alarming outbreak of listeria linked to ready-to-eat chicken fettuccine Alfredo products sold at Walmart and Kroger stores has raised health concerns. The outbreak, which began last August, has now resulted in at least 17 infections across 13 states, with three fatalities reported in Illinois, Michigan, and Texas. The products involved in the recall were manufactured by FreshRealm, a significant player in the food industry, known for its heat-and-eat meal solutions. The affected items included Marketside and Home Chef branded fettuccine Alfredo meals, sold in various sizes and with specific best-by dates. The recalled items were distributed nationwide prior to June 17, 2025. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified the outbreak strain of listeria in multiple sick individuals from August 1, 2024, to May 27, 2025. In March 2025, health officials discovered the same listeria strain during a routine inspection of a FreshRealm facility; however, the product linked to this strain was never sold. Despite the significant number of illnesses associated with the outbreak, the company has stated that they hadn't received direct reports linking their product to any of these cases at the time. Health authorities have advised consumers who purchased the affected meals to dispose of or return them for a full refund. The outbreak has raised questions about the safety protocols in place within the food production industry, particularly concerning listeria, which is notoriously dangerous. People particularly vulnerable to listeria infections include older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems, as listeriosis can cause severe health complications, including miscarriage or stillbirth in pregnant women. This incident reflects a broader concern about food safety in the U.S., particularly in light of recent listeria outbreaks in different food sectors. Federal health officials have been focusing on ways to revamp inspection procedures to mitigate the risks associated with listeria, as figures indicate that around 1,600 people are diagnosed with listeria infections each year, leading to approximately 260 deaths in the country. The investigation surrounding the outbreak continues, with authorities keen to trace the specific cause of contamination while keeping consumers updated on their safety options.