Listeria Outbreak Linked to Recalled Heat-and-Eat Chicken Fettucine Alfredo Products

A recent outbreak of listeria food poisoning has claimed the lives of three individuals and led to a pregnancy loss, prompting a massive recall of heat-and-eat chicken fettucine alfredo products sold at popular retailers like Kroger and Walmart.

What Happened?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have been investigating an ongoing listeria outbreak that has affected multiple states across the country. The investigation revealed a common thread: heat-and-eat chicken fettucine alfredo products sold at major retailers.

The Products in Question

The recalled products are part of the "Rotisserie Chick'n Fettucine Alfredo" line, manufactured by Conagra Brands, Inc. The affected products were distributed to various retailers, including Kroger and Walmart, between January 2022 and March 2023.

Symptoms of Listeria Poisoning

Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause severe food poisoning in vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, young children, and pregnant women. Symptoms of listeria poisoning typically begin within 3-70 days after consuming contaminated food and may include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

In severe cases, listeria poisoning can lead to life-threatening complications, including:

• Meningitis (inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord)
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Seizures
• Stroke

The Impact on Consumers

The outbreak has resulted in three confirmed deaths and one pregnancy loss. The CDC has also received reports of additional cases, but the exact number is still unknown.

Consumers who have purchased heat-and-eat chicken fettucine alfredo products from Kroger or Walmart are advised to discard any remaining product due to potential contamination.

Recall and Investigation

Conagra Brands, Inc. has issued a voluntary recall of all affected products, which can be found on the company's website.

The FDA and CDC are collaborating with state and local health departments to investigate the outbreak and identify the source of the contaminated products.

Prevention Tips

To minimize the risk of listeria poisoning:

• Always handle raw meat, poultry, and seafood safely.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before handling food.
• Cook food to the recommended internal temperature.
• Avoid cross-contamination by separating raw and ready-to-eat foods.

What's Next?

As the investigation continues, consumers can expect updates on the recall and any additional actions taken by regulatory agencies. Retailers will also continue to remove affected products from their shelves.

In the meantime, consumers are advised to remain vigilant and take steps to protect themselves from listeria poisoning:

• Discard any remaining heat-and-eat chicken fettucine alfredo products.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before handling food.
• Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, poultry, or seafood.
• Follow proper cooking and handling procedures for all foods.

Conclusion

The recent listeria outbreak linked to recalled heat-and-eat chicken fettucine alfredo products serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and handling practices. By taking proactive steps to prevent contamination and following proper food handling guidelines, consumers can reduce their risk of contracting listeria poisoning.