Kroger recalls pasta products due to potential listeria contamination threat

In the United States, the Kroger Company initiated a recall involving certain pasta products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This action was taken after the company was notified on September 26, 2025, regarding the possible contamination, prompting a voluntary recall. The affected pasta salads primarily include the Smoked Mozzarella Penne Salad and the Basil Pesto Bowtie Pasta Salad, manufactured by Nate's Fine Foods in Roseville, California. The recall is extensive, impacting over a dozen states including Alabama, Georgia, and Kentucky, and hundreds of stores under the Kroger Family of Stores, which encompass various regional brands. Listeria monocytogenes is known to cause listeriosis, which can lead to severe illness or even death, particularly among vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, infants, and the elderly. Symptoms associated with this infection can include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress, and in severe cases, it can escalate to seizures and other neurological issues. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been closely monitoring food safety issues and announced the recall following the detection of Listeria in a batch of pasta ingredients linked to multiple grocery chains. This recall aligns with earlier announcements from the FDA, highlighting a broader concern about food safety standards across the food supply chain. Kroger is urging customers who may have purchased the recalled items to discontinue use and return them for a refund as a precaution while the matter is investigated further. The ongoing surveillance by health authorities aims to mitigate any potential health risks associated with contaminated food products. As part of the recall response, Kroger has been actively coordinating with the FDA to ensure that they comply with required recall protocols, and they are working to engage with affected customers. As warnings about food safety continue to rise, consumers are reminded to pay careful attention to product recalls and public notices issued by suppliers and regulatory agencies, reinforcing the importance of vigilance in food consumption to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses.