Health officials in the United States have issued a serious warning about some ready-to-eat pasta meals sold at Trader Joe’s and Walmart.
These meals may be linked to a deadly listeria outbreak that has already spread to several states, leaving people sick and even causing deaths. If you have recently bought pasta meals from these stores, it is important to check them right away and follow safety steps.
Recalled Products
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have recalled two popular pasta meals. These products may contain Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that causes a dangerous infection called listeriosis.
Here is a simple table of the affected items:
| Store | Product Name | Use-By Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce | Sept. 22 – Oct. 1 | Recalled |
| Trader Joe’s | Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo | Sept. 20, 24, 27 | Recalled |
Both retailers have removed these meals from shelves and are offering refunds to customers.
States Affected
So far, the outbreak has been confirmed in 15 states. These include:
California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, and Virginia.
How Serious Is The Outbreak?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the outbreak has already:
- Killed 4 people
- Sickened 20 or more individuals
- Hospitalized nearly all patients
- Caused fetal loss in a pregnant woman
Health experts believe the actual number of cases may be higher, because some people recover at home without medical help and are never tested.
Understanding Listeria Infection
Listeriosis is a foodborne illness caused by eating food contaminated with listeria bacteria. It is most dangerous for:
- Pregnant women and newborns
- Adults over 65 years old
- People with weak immune systems
Common symptoms include:
- Fever and muscle aches
- Stomach problems such as diarrhea
- Stiff neck
- Confusion or balance problems
Symptoms may appear within a day or take up to 10 weeks after eating the contaminated meal.
What To Do If You Bought These Meals
The CDC and FDA have shared important safety steps for customers:
- Do not eat the recalled meals.
- Throw them away immediately or return them to the store.
- Clean refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that touched the meals.
- Call your doctor if you feel sick or show symptoms of listeriosis.
Why Were These Products Recalled?
The pasta meals were made by FreshRealm Inc., which was already linked to earlier chicken Alfredo recalls in June 2025. Testing confirmed that the same strain of listeria was found in the pasta meals.
The pasta supplier, Nate’s Fine Foods, is working with health authorities to check if more recalls are necessary.
Other Products At Risk?
Right now, only the products listed above are included in the recall. However, Trader Joe’s and Walmart acted out of caution and pulled them from stores. Both retailers are giving refunds for recalled meals.
The listeria outbreak linked to Trader Joe’s and Walmart pasta meals is a serious reminder about food safety. With deaths, hospitalizations, and cases spreading across the country, it is very important to take this recall seriously.
If you bought the recalled products, remove them from your home immediately, clean your kitchen, and contact a doctor if you feel sick. Taking quick action can protect you and your family from a dangerous infection.
FAQs
Which pasta meals are recalled?
The recall includes Walmart’s Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs and Trader Joe’s Cajun Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Fever, stomach upset, stiff neck, confusion, and balance problems are common signs of listeriosis.
Can I get a refund for these meals?
Yes, both Walmart and Trader Joe’s are offering refunds to customers who purchased the recalled products.
