Listeria Outbreak: CDC Warns of Contaminated Supplement Shakes

A multistate outbreak of Listeria infections, linked to frozen supplement shakes, has prompted a food safety alert from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak, which began in 2018, has affected individuals across 21 states, resulting in significant illness and loss of life.

A Long-Simmering Threat

The CDC reports that 38 people have been infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria. Of those, 37 required hospitalization, and tragically, 12 deaths have been confirmed. What distinguishes this outbreak is its duration; while cases began appearing in 2018, over half of those affected became ill in either 2024 or 2025. This longevity is characteristic of Listeria, a resilient germ capable of surviving for extended periods on surfaces.

Identifying the Source

For years, investigators struggled to pinpoint the source of the outbreak, knowing only that it involved illnesses occurring among individuals receiving care in long-term facilities. Recent advancements in environmental testing and whole genome sequencing finally linked the infections to Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes. Both companies have issued recalls for all products within shelf life.

Who is at Risk?

Listeria poses a particularly serious threat to certain populations. Pregnant women, individuals aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing invasive listeriosis, a severe condition where the infection spreads beyond the digestive system. For pregnant women, this can lead to pregnancy loss, premature birth, or life-threatening infection in the newborn. For older adults and immunocompromised individuals, hospitalization and even death are possible outcomes.

What Should Be Done?

The CDC advises individuals not to consume any recalled products and to discard or return them to the point of purchase. Thorough cleaning of refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with the shakes is also recommended, as Listeria can persist in refrigerated environments. Anyone experiencing symptoms after potential exposure should seek immediate medical attention.

Looking Ahead

If the outbreak continues, further investigation may be needed to determine if the contamination source extends beyond the recalled shakes. Additional products or facilities could be affected, requiring expanded recalls and heightened surveillance. The CDC and FDA will likely continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as new information becomes available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of a Listeria infection?

Symptoms typically begin within two weeks of consuming contaminated food, but can range from the same day to as late as 10 weeks after. Pregnant women may experience fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. Others may have fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.

Are these recalled shakes available to the general public?

No, these products were distributed nationwide only to institutional settings, such as long-term care facilities, and were given most commonly to those on medically necessary soft diets. They are not available for purchase by the general public.

Where can I find more information about Listeria?

More information about Listeria can be found on the CDC’s Listeria homepage: https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/about/

Given the vulnerability of those affected by this outbreak, what additional measures can long-term care facilities take to ensure the safety of the food supply for their residents?