A recent listeria outbreak has prompted a voluntary recall of several prepared food products, raising concerns about food safety. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported that the outbreak, first identified in 2024, has led to 10 hospitalizations, with eight cases in California and two in Nevada.
The recall follows an investigation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), who initially struggled to pinpoint the source of the outbreak. After inspecting Fresh & Ready Foods, the FDA found evidence of listeria contamination, which led to a reopening of the investigation in April 2025.
The affected products, with “Use By” dates between April 22 and May 19, include items from Fresh & Ready Foods, City Point Market Fresh Food to Go, and Fresh Take Crave Away. These products were distributed to Arizona, California, Nevada, and Washington, and were sold at various retailers and food service locations, including hospitals, hotels, airports, convenience stores, and airlines.
Symptoms of listeria infection include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea, with more severe symptoms such as confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions in some cases. Health experts advise anyone who thinks they might have been affected to contact a healthcare provider immediately.
This recall serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with ready-to-eat foods. For now, consumers may want to rethink their food choices.
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