Listeria Outbreak: CDC Warns of Recalled Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

A public health alert has been issued following a multistate outbreak of Listeria infections linked to recalled chicken fettuccine alfredo meals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating the outbreak, which has already impacted individuals across 13 states.

The Outbreak So Far

As of June 18, 2025, seventeen people have been confirmed with the same strain of Listeria. Sixteen of those affected have required hospitalization, and tragically, three deaths have been reported in Illinois, Michigan, and Texas. The outbreak has also impacted a pregnancy, resulting in fetal loss.

Illnesses linked to this outbreak began appearing as early as July 24, 2024, with the most recent case reported on May 10, 2025. The source of the outbreak has been traced to FreshRealm chicken fettuccine alfredo meals, prompting a recall on June 17, 2025.

Did You Know? The illnesses associated with this outbreak spanned a period of nearly eleven months, beginning in July 2024 and continuing through May 2025.

What Products Are Affected?

The recalled chicken fettuccine alfredo meals were sold under the Marketside and Home Chef brand names at Kroger and Walmart stores in the refrigerated sections. This recall does not include frozen meals.

What Should You Do?

Individuals who have purchased the recalled chicken fettuccine alfredo meals are advised not to consume them. These products should be either discarded or returned to the store where they were purchased. Thorough cleaning of refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled foods is also recommended, as Listeria can survive in refrigerated environments.

Anyone experiencing symptoms after consuming the recalled products should seek medical attention immediately.

Expert Insight: Outbreaks of Listeria pose a heightened risk to certain populations, including older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. The potential for severe complications underscores the importance of adhering to food safety guidelines and promptly seeking medical care if symptoms develop.

Understanding Listeria and Its Symptoms

Listeria infection, known as listeriosis, can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable individuals. For those aged 65 or older, or with weakened immune systems, the infection is more likely to spread beyond the digestive system, potentially leading to severe illness and even death. Pregnant women are at risk of pregnancy loss, premature birth, or life-threatening infection in their newborns.

Symptoms of Listeria infection typically appear within two weeks of consuming contaminated food, though they can manifest as early as the same day or as late as ten weeks after exposure. Symptoms vary depending on the individual, with pregnant women often experiencing fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Non-pregnant individuals may experience fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What states have reported illnesses?

Illnesses have been reported in 13 states.

What should I do if I think I have symptoms?

Call a healthcare provider right away if you have symptoms after eating the recalled foods.

Where can I find more information about Listeria?

More information about Listeria can be found on the CDC’s website.

Given the potential severity of Listeria infections, particularly for vulnerable populations, how carefully do you typically review food recall notices?

Listeria Outbreak: CDC Warns of Recalled Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo | CDC