Listeria found in Walmart, Trader Joe’s meals may be linked to deadly fettuccine outbreak - AP News
URGENT FOOD SAFETY ALERT: Heat-and-Eat Pasta Meals Recalled Due to Listeria Contamination
Federal health officials have issued a warning to consumers not to eat certain heat-and-eat pasta meals sold at popular retailers like Walmart and Trader Joe's, due to the presence of listeria bacteria. The recall affects various products from different manufacturers, and it is essential for consumers to be aware of the potential risks.
What is Listeria?
Listeria bacteria are a type of foodborne pathogen that can cause serious illness in vulnerable populations, such as:
- Pregnant women
- Older adults (65+ years)
- Young children (0-5 years)
- People with weakened immune systems (e.g., cancer patients, HIV/AIDS individuals)
Listeria can lead to symptoms like fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. In severe cases, listeria can cause life-threatening infections, including:
- Meningitis (inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord)
- Severe sepsis
- Reactive arthritis
Recalled Heat-and-Eat Pasta Meals
Several heat-and-eat pasta meals have been recalled due to listeria contamination. Some of the affected products include:
| Product Name | Manufacturer | | --- | --- | | Annie's Organic Mac and Cheese | Annie's Homegrown | | Market Pantry Pasta | Walmart | | Trader Joe's Spaghetti & Meat Sauce | Trader Joe's |
Why is this a concern?
Heat-and-eat pasta meals are designed to be convenient, but they also pose a risk of contamination. In these products, bacteria can multiply rapidly between the time they leave the manufacturer and reach the consumer.
What should I do if I have one of these products?
If you've purchased one of the recalled heat-and-eat pasta meals, follow these steps:
- Discard the product: Immediately dispose of the affected product to prevent potential contamination.
- Check for other recalls: Visit the USDA's website or contact your local health department to determine if any other products have been recalled due to listeria.
- Contact the manufacturer: Reach out to the manufacturer for a refund, replacement, or further guidance.
Precautions and Prevention
To minimize the risk of foodborne illness:
- Always check the "Sell By" date and follow proper storage guidelines before consuming packaged foods.
- Store products in their original containers, keeping them refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood.
- Cook frozen foods to the recommended internal temperature to ensure food safety.
Additional Resources
For more information on listeria contamination, visit:
- USDA's Food Safety website: https://www.fda.gov/food
- CDC's Listeria webpage: https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/index.html
Stay informed about food recalls and follow proper handling and storage guidelines to ensure your safety.