Listeria Outbreak Linked to Recalled Pasta Meals Results in Six Deaths Across 18 States

A listeria outbreak linked to recalled precooked pasta meals has resulted in six deaths and 27 reported illnesses across 18 U.S. states since August 2024, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The most recent cases occurred in September and October, with the latest illness reported on October 16.

The outbreak has been traced to precooked pasta produced by Nate's Fine Foods of Roseville, California. In September, the company recalled nearly 245,000 pounds of various pasta products, including linguine, fettuccine, and penne, which were distributed to producers of ready-to-eat meals and pasta salads. These products were sold under multiple brand names at major grocery chains such as Walmart, Trader Joe's, Kroger, and Albertsons.

Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators and freezers for recalled products and either discard them or return them to the place of purchase. The CDC, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are jointly investigating the outbreak to determine if further contamination exists.

Listeria infections can cause serious illness, particularly in older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant individuals. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In pregnant individuals, the infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn.