Introduction
A severe listeria outbreak has led to the deaths of 11 individuals and sickened at least 38 across 21 states. The source has been traced to frozen supplemental shakes distributed primarily to nursing homes and hospitals. In response, a nationwide recall of the affected products has been initiated.
The Outbreak Unfolds
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall of frozen shakes sold under the brands Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial. These products were distributed to institutions such as nursing homes, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. The outbreak, which dates back to 2018, has resulted in 38 reported illnesses, 37 hospitalizations, and 11 fatalities. Notably, 34 of those affected were residents of long-term care facilities or hospital patients who consumed the contaminated shakes.
Company Response and Recall Details
Lyons Magnus, the manufacturer of the implicated products, has voluntarily recalled the Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes. The company has ceased sourcing from the affected third-party manufacturer, Prairie Farms, and has notified all customers to halt the distribution and use of the recalled products. Lyons Magnus emphasized that the contamination is confined to specific products from this manufacturer.
Scope of the Outbreak
The listeria cases span 21 states, including Alabama, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and West Virginia. While the outbreak began in 2018, it has persisted, with 20 cases reported between 2024 and 2025. Investigators had previously been unable to pinpoint the source of the infections until now.
Understanding Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause severe infections, particularly in young children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea. In more severe cases, individuals may experience headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Listeria can survive in refrigerated temperatures and can easily spread to other foods and surfaces, making it a formidable pathogen in food safety.
FDA and CDC Involvement
The FDA, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is actively investigating the outbreak. The agencies are working to trace the contamination source, assess the distribution of the affected products, and implement measures to prevent further cases. Consumers and institutions are urged to check their inventories and immediately discard any recalled products. The FDA has provided a comprehensive list of recalled products and is updating the public as more information becomes available.
Preventative Measures and Consumer Guidance
To minimize the risk of listeria infection, consumers and food service providers should adhere to the following guidelines:
- Proper Refrigeration: Maintain refrigerators at 40°F (4°C) or lower and freezers at 0°F (-18°C) or lower.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean and sanitize refrigerators, cutting boards, and countertops regularly to prevent the spread of listeria.
- Safe Food Handling: Thoroughly cook raw foods from animal sources, such as meat and poultry, to safe internal temperatures.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Keep raw and cooked foods separate, and wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw foods.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check for food recalls and safety alerts from reputable sources, such as the FDA and CDC.
Conclusion
The tragic listeria outbreak linked to frozen supplemental shakes underscores the critical importance of stringent food safety practices, especially in settings serving vulnerable populations. As the FDA and CDC continue their investigation, it is imperative for institutions and consumers to remain vigilant, adhere to recall notices, and implement recommended safety measures to prevent further illnesses and fatalities.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
