Federal health officials are warning consumers to avoid certain ready-to-eat meals sold at Walmart and Trader Joe’s due to potential listeria contamination. The affected products include Trader Joe’s Cajun-style blackened chicken breast Fettchin Alfredo (16-ounce trays with best buy dates of September 20, 24, and 27) and Walmart’s Marketside beef meatballs with marinara sauce (12-ounce trays with dates from September 22 to October 1). Both products carry USDA establishment numbers related to the contamination concerns.
The listeria strain identified in these meals is linked to a previous outbreak associated with the Chicken Fettchin Alfredo, which has resulted in four deaths and at least 20 illnesses. FreshRealm, the distributor for these products, has issued a recommendation for Walmart to remove them from shelves, which Walmart has complied with.
Listeria is particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include fever, muscle pain, and confusion. The CDC reports approximately 1,600 listeria infections and 260 related deaths annually. Federal officials are enhancing preventive measures in light of past outbreaks.
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