The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a food safety alert concerning a multistate outbreak of Listeria infections. This outbreak has been traced back to certain FreshRealm chicken fettuccine alfredo meals, leading to 17 illnesses across 13 states. Sixteen individuals have been hospitalized, and there have been three reported deaths in Illinois, Michigan, and Texas. Additionally, one pregnancy-associated illness resulted in a fetal loss.
The illnesses were reported between July 24, 2024, and May 10, 2025. Following these incidents, FreshRealm recalled the affected chicken fettuccine alfredo meals on June 17, 2025. These products were sold under the Marketside and Home Chef brand names at Kroger and Walmart stores in their refrigerated sections.
The CDC advises consumers not to consume the recalled foods. Affected items should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase. It is also recommended to clean any surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated products.
Listeria poses significant risks particularly to individuals aged 65 or older, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems due to its potential to spread beyond the gut causing invasive listeriosis. Symptoms generally appear within two weeks after consuming contaminated food but can range from the same day up to ten weeks later.
Pregnant women typically experience fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Non-pregnant individuals may also encounter headaches, stiff necks, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures alongside similar symptoms.
For further information about Listeria or inquiries specific to state cases, individuals are encouraged to contact their state's health department. Members of the media can submit inquiries through a Request for Comment form provided by the CDC.
