Ten Individuals Affected by Listeria Outbreak Linked to Prepared Foods in the U.S.

SAN FERNANDO, Calif. -- A listeria outbreak in the United States has resulted in at least ten reported illnesses associated with ready-to-eat food items. In response, the affected producer, Fresh & Ready Foods LLC, based in San Fernando, California, has initiated a voluntary recall of several products, according to federal health officials.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced over the weekend that federal, state, and local authorities are currently investigating the outbreak, which has been traced back to food products manufactured by Fresh & Ready Foods. The reported cases of illness are concentrated in California and Nevada, with all affected individuals requiring hospitalization.

These contaminated products were distributed across various locations, including retailers and food service establishments in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Washington. The items reached diverse venues such as hospitals, hotels, convenience stores, airports, and even airlines.

Symptoms of listeria infection typically manifest within two weeks after consuming contaminated food. Mild cases may present with fever, muscle aches, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe instances, symptoms could escalate to include headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.

Federal investigations into this outbreak began last year but initially lacked sufficient evidence to pinpoint the source of the illnesses. However, the case was reopened in April after FDA inspectors detected listeria in samples taken from Fresh & Ready Foods that matched the outbreak strain.

The FDA's findings revealed that six of the ten individuals who fell ill had previously been hospitalized before contracting listeria. Furthermore, items produced by Fresh & Ready Foods were served in at least three healthcare facilities where the patients had received treatment.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), test samples from the affected patients were collected between December 2023 and September 2024. Following the outbreak's identification, Fresh & Ready Foods took immediate corrective actions, which included the removal of potentially contaminated equipment.

The company issued a voluntary recall for several products, identifiable by "use by" dates ranging from April 22 to May 19 of this year. These products are sold under various brand names, including Fresh & Ready Foods, City Point Market Fresh Food to Go, and Fresh Take Crave Away.

The FDA and CDC continue to monitor the situation closely as the investigation unfolds, urging consumers to remain vigilant regarding the foods they purchase and consume.