Federal Alert: Walmart's Ready-to-Eat Meals Linked to Deadly Listeria Outbreak
A federal health alert has been issued for ready-to-eat meals sold at Walmart, linked to a deadly listeria outbreak. The alert covers meals sold nationwide, including the Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce.
Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, can lead to serious illness in vulnerable individuals such as older adults, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.
The affected meals were sold in 12-ounce clear plastic trays with best-by dates ranging from Sept. 22 to Oct. 1. Despite the alert, no official recall has been issued. FreshRealm, the distributor, advised Walmart to remove the meals from store shelves this week. The listeria strain found in the linguine matches the one that caused an outbreak tied to chicken fettuccine Alfredo earlier this year. Three deaths and at least 17 illnesses were reported in the previous outbreak.
Consumers are advised to discard any affected meals and avoid eating them. If symptoms of listeria infection develop, seek medical attention immediately. Walmart and FreshRealm are cooperating with health authorities to investigate the source of the contamination.
