Listeria Outbreak Linked to Ready-to-Eat Foods: Recall Issued

A multi-state listeria outbreak, traced back to ready-to-eat food products manufactured by Fresh & Ready Foods LLC of San Fernando, California, has prompted a voluntary recall of affected items. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that at least ten individuals have been sickened and hospitalized as a result of consuming contaminated products. The outbreak investigation, involving the FDA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local authorities, has revealed that the affected foods were distributed across several states, raising concerns about potential further illnesses.

The initial investigation into this cluster of listeria cases began in 2024, but investigators were unable to pinpoint a definitive source at that time due to lack of sufficient evidence. However, the investigation was reopened in April 2025 following a routine inspection of Fresh & Ready Foods’ production facilities. During this inspection, environmental samples tested positive for listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible for listeriosis. This discovery provided the crucial link between the company’s products and the outbreak.

The voluntary recall encompasses a range of ready-to-eat food products manufactured by Fresh & Ready Foods. These products are identified by "use by" dates ranging from April 22 to May 19. While the specific brand names of the recalled products have been detailed in a comprehensive list released by the FDA, consumers are urged to carefully examine any ready-to-eat items they may have purchased recently to determine if they fall within the recall parameters.

The distribution of the recalled products spanned several states, including Arizona, California, Nevada, and Washington. These products were available for purchase at various locations, including retail stores, and also distributed to food service establishments such as hospitals, hotels, convenience stores, airports, and airlines. This widespread distribution increases the potential for exposure and underscores the importance of consumer awareness and vigilance.

Of the ten reported cases of listeriosis linked to the outbreak, the majority, eight cases, have been reported in California. The remaining two cases have been identified in Nevada. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation in these and other states to detect any additional cases that may arise.

The FDA is issuing a strong advisory to consumers and distributors who have purchased or received any of the recalled products: do not consume, sell, or serve them. These products should be discarded immediately to prevent further exposure to listeria bacteria.

In addition to discarding the recalled products, individuals and businesses who have handled these items are urged to take thorough cleaning and sanitizing measures. Any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the recalled products should be carefully cleaned and sanitized using appropriate cleaning agents and disinfectants. This will help to eliminate any residual listeria bacteria and prevent cross-contamination.

Listeriosis, the infection caused by listeria monocytogenes, can manifest in a variety of ways. Symptoms can appear within a wide timeframe, ranging from the same day of consuming contaminated food to as late as ten weeks after exposure. Typically, symptoms emerge within two weeks.

Mild symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, tiredness, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, in some cases, the infection can lead to more severe and potentially life-threatening symptoms, such as headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.

Certain populations are more susceptible to severe complications from listeriosis. These include pregnant women and newborns, adults aged 65 or older, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women may experience only mild flu-like symptoms, but listeriosis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn. In older adults and people with weakened immune systems, listeriosis can cause sepsis (bloodstream infection) or meningitis (infection of the brain and spinal cord).

The FDA emphasizes the importance of seeking immediate medical attention for anyone who suspects they may have listeriosis. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial to preventing serious complications and improving outcomes. If you experience any of the symptoms of listeriosis, particularly if you are in a high-risk group, contact your healthcare provider without delay.

The ongoing investigation into the listeria outbreak continues, with the FDA and CDC working diligently to identify the specific sources of contamination and prevent further illnesses. The voluntary recall is a crucial step in removing potentially contaminated products from the marketplace and protecting public health. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about the outbreak and recall by regularly checking the FDA and CDC websites for updates and additional information.
The collaboration between federal, state, and local authorities underscores the importance of a coordinated response to foodborne illness outbreaks. By working together, these agencies can effectively investigate outbreaks, identify sources of contamination, implement control measures, and communicate vital information to the public.

The listeria outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety practices throughout the food supply chain, from production and processing to distribution and consumption. Implementing robust food safety protocols, including proper sanitation, temperature control, and employee training, is essential to minimizing the risk of contamination and protecting consumers from foodborne illnesses. Consumers also play a vital role in preventing foodborne illnesses by following safe food handling practices, such as washing hands thoroughly, cooking foods to the proper temperature, and avoiding cross-contamination.
Gabe Hauari, a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY, can be contacted for further information or media inquiries. His contact information is available via email or X (formerly Twitter). The public is urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from listeriosis.