Listeria Outbreak Linked to Recalled Pasta Meals Kills 6, Sickens 27 in 18 States
CHICAGO — Federal health officials say a listeria outbreak connected to recalled pre-cooked pasta products has expanded across the U.S., with six confirmed deaths and 27 reported illnesses in 18 states, including Illinois.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed Thursday that two new deaths — in Hawaii and Oregon — were recently linked to the contaminated pasta, along with several new hospitalizations in September and October. Previous fatalities were reported in Illinois, Michigan, Texas, and Utah.
One infected patient was pregnant, and the illness tragically led to the death of a fetus, according to CDC data.
Outbreak Linked to California-Based Pasta Manufacturer
Investigators traced the outbreak to Nate’s Fine Foods, a pasta manufacturer in Roseville, California, which supplies pre-cooked pasta used in ready-to-eat meals and deli salads.
The company recalled nearly 245,000 pounds of pasta — including linguine, penne, fettuccine, and other varieties — after laboratory tests found the same strain of listeria monocytogenes that appeared in multiple contaminated meal products.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are coordinating with state health departments to identify whether additional products may be affected.
“People should check their refrigerators and freezers for recalled pasta meals and throw them away or return them for a refund,” the CDC warned in a statement.
Dozens of Products Pulled from Shelves Nationwide
The pasta was used in store-brand and third-party meals distributed nationwide through grocery chains such as Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Kroger, Giant Eagle, Sprouts, and Albertsons.
Here are the major recalls announced so far:
- Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo (best-by dates from Sept. 20–Oct. 10, 2025)
- Walmart (Marketside) Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara, and Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine (best-by dates through June 2025)
- Kroger deli bowtie and penne pasta salads (sold Aug. 29–Oct. 2)
- Sprouts Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad (best-by Oct. 10–29)
- Giant Eagle Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad (expiration dates Sept. 30–Oct. 7)
- Albertsons deli pasta salads (sell-through Sept. 8–Oct. 4)
- Scott & Jon’s Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Bowls (best if used by March 12–21, 2027)
- Home Chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo (best-by June 19 or earlier)
Listeria Poses Serious Risk to Pregnant Women and Seniors
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that causes serious, sometimes fatal infections, particularly among newborns, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system, leading to confusion, seizures, or death.
Health experts warn that listeria can grow even in refrigerated environments, making ready-to-eat meals and cold salads particularly vulnerable.
“If you have any of these recalled products in your home, do not eat them,” the CDC reiterated. “Wash any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the food.”
Investigation Continues as Outbreak Expands
The CDC said it is still investigating whether any additional products are linked to the outbreak. Genetic sequencing has confirmed that pasta supplied by Nate’s Fine Foods matches the strain of bacteria found in meals produced by FreshRealm, a California-based company that distributes “heat-and-eat” pasta dishes nationwide.
Officials are also reviewing the supply chain for potential contamination points, as new cases continue to emerge.
The outbreak began in August 2024, but several of the most recent illnesses were reported in September and October 2025, with the last known case recorded on October 16.
Consumers can view the full list of recalled products and lot codes on the FDA’s recall database or the CDC’s outbreak investigation page.
For Illinois residents, health officials advise discarding any pasta meals purchased before mid-October and monitoring for symptoms.
Stay updated on food safety alerts and consumer recalls at NapervilleLocal.com.
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