A widespread recall of nutritional shakes has been issued following a deadly outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes, which has resulted in 11 deaths and at least 27 hospitalizations across 21 states in the U.S. The outbreak, which has been traced back to 2018, has primarily affected individuals in long-term care facilities and hospitals.
On Friday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed the recall, which involves 4 oz. packs of Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes. These products were voluntarily pulled from the market by Lyons Magnus, the food service company distributing them, after their manufacturer, Prairie Farms in Fort Wayne, Indiana, issued a recall notice.
According to the FDA, 38 people have been infected with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacteria that can lead to severe illness, particularly in vulnerable individuals. Out of these cases, 34 were either residents of long-term care facilities or patients who were already hospitalized. The contaminated shakes were commonly available in such facilities, putting high-risk populations at increased danger.
Health officials have been tracking this outbreak for several years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the bacteria linked to these infections have been circulating since at least 2018. However, the exact sources and circumstances leading to the initial contamination remain unclear.
Lyons Magnus emphasized that it took immediate action upon learning of the contamination. The company halted all purchases from the affected Prairie Farms facility, notified its customers, and worked to remove all impacted products from distribution across the country.
The FDA continues to investigate how the contamination occurred and whether additional products could be affected. Given the serious nature of listeria infections, consumers, especially those in high-risk groups, are urged to avoid consuming the recalled shakes and check with their healthcare providers if they experience any concerning symptoms.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that causes listeriosis, a serious infection that primarily affects older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can appear anywhere from two to ten weeks after consuming contaminated food. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and gastrointestinal distress. In more severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system, leading to confusion, stiff neck, convulsions, and even death.
Pregnant women face unique risks, as listeria infections can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns.
This is not the first time listeria has been linked to foodborne illness outbreaks in the U.S. Last year, a separate outbreak associated with ready-to-eat meat products sickened 10 adults and led to the death of an infant across four states. These repeated incidents highlight the ongoing need for stringent food safety measures in processing and distribution.
The FDA urges consumers to check their refrigerators and freezers for any recalled Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes. These products should be discarded immediately. Consumers should also sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated shakes to prevent further spread of the bacteria.
Additionally, individuals experiencing symptoms of listeriosis should seek medical attention, especially those in high-risk groups. Healthcare providers can conduct tests to confirm infection and provide appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics in severe cases.
The recall of nutritional shakes linked to the deadly listeria outbreak serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of foodborne illnesses. With 11 lives lost and dozens of people hospitalized, this case underscores the importance of rigorous food safety protocols, early detection, and swift action to prevent further harm. Public health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and consumers are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones.
