Federal health authorities are urgently investigating a deadly listeria outbreak linked to ready-to-eat chicken fettuccine alfredo meals sold under popular brands at Walmart and Kroger stores across the United States.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), the outbreak has so far resulted in:

• Three deaths
• One pregnancy loss
• 17 confirmed illnesses across 13 states

The recalled products were distributed by FreshRealm, a national food distributor with facilities in California, Georgia, and Indiana. The company announced a nationwide recall on June 18, 2025, for all chicken fettuccine alfredo meals produced before June 17, 2025.

Recalled Products:

1. Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine Pasta
   • Sizes: 32.8 oz and 12.3 oz
   • Best-by dates: June 26 and June 27, 2025
   • Sold at: Walmart
2. Home Chef Heat & Eat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
   • Size: 12.5 oz
   • Best-by date: June 19, 2025, or earlier
   • Sold at: Kroger

Consumers are strongly advised not to consume these products. If purchased, they should be discarded immediately or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.

What Is Listeria?

Listeria monocytogenes is a harmful bacterium that can lead to severe illness, particularly in pregnant women, newborns, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea, but the infection can escalate and become life-threatening.

Public Health Response

The FSIS is working alongside the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health departments to trace the origin of the contamination and prevent further cases.

Source: US Today