Jackson, Miss. — A recall of ready-to-eat chicken Alfredo meals is underway due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterial pathogen linked to serious illnesses. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall following reported cases of listeriosis, which has been associated with multiple hospitalizations and three fatalities, including one stillbirth.
The recall affects a variety of chicken fettuccine Alfredo products manufactured by FreshRealm. These meals, which were distributed nationwide, have been available at major retailers, including Kroger and Walmart. Specific items recalled include Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine and Home Chef Heat & Eat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, with various best-by dates stretching into 2025.
As authorities investigate the outbreak, they have identified 17 confirmed cases across 13 states. Although the recall is precautionary, health officials have confirmed that the strain of bacteria found in at least one of the FreshRealm products corresponds to the outbreak strain connected with reported illnesses. The CDC continues to actively monitor and assess the situation, exploring whether a particular ingredient in the chicken Alfredo meals could be responsible for the contamination.
FreshRealm initiated the voluntary recall on June 17, highlighting the importance of consumer awareness regarding the affected meals. Each package of the recalled products displays the establishment numbers “EST. P-50784,” “EST. P-47770,” or “EST. P-47718,” along with the USDA inspection mark. Consumers are urged to check their freezers and refrigerators for these items.
The FSIS has issued strong advisories to people who might have purchased the affected meals, recommending that they refrain from consuming them. Instead, any recalled products should either be disposed of safely or returned to the store where they were purchased for a refund.
For those seeking further clarification or assistance regarding the recall, FreshRealm has set up a dedicated customer service line at 888-244-1562. Additionally, consumers can reach out to the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854 or via email for inquiries related to food safety.
As investigations continue and further details emerge, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and exercise caution when it comes to food products.