Listeria Outbreak Linked to Frozen Supplemental Shakes Kills 12, Prompts Nationwide Recall

Image credits: Source Link

The US Food and Drug Administration has reported a Listeria outbreak linked to frozen supplemental shakes, resulting in 12 deaths and 38 infections across 21 states. The outbreak is associated with Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial shakes, which are manufactured by Prairie Farms Dairy Inc. in Fort Wayne, Indiana. These shakes are primarily distributed to hospitals and long-term care facilities, and have been recalled by the manufacturer and distributor, Lyons Magnus. The FDA is conducting an onsite investigation to determine the cause of the contamination.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began investigating these illnesses in 2018 but was unable to identify a specific cause of Listeria infections in long-term care facilities and nursing homes. However, after six new cases were reported in October, the agency reopened the investigation and discovered the outbreak strain of bacteria in Prairie Farms samples this month. The CDC believes that there are probably more cases than what has been reported, and is working to identify additional cases. Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause severe illness, particularly in older adults, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of Listeria infection may start days or weeks after consuming the bacteria and can include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, an infection can cause a stiff neck, headache, confusion, or seizures. The CDC recommends that anyone who develops symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical care immediately. Most people won't need treatment, but antibiotics may be needed in severe cases. To prevent further illnesses, the FDA recommends that people clean areas that may have been in contact with the recalled products, such as refrigerators, containers, and surfaces.

A list of recalled products includes 17 different types of Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial frozen supplemental shakes, which were distributed throughout the United States. The recalled products were packed in 4 oz. cartons and have a printed lot code and best-by date on the top of the carton. Consumers who have purchased these products should quarantine them and contact Lyons Magnus for more information. The company has established a website and email address for consumers to report any concerns or questions. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with Prairie Farms, Sysco, and the US Food and Drug Administration.

The outbreak is a reminder of the importance of food safety and the need for companies to take prompt action to protect consumers. Lyons Magnus has announced that it is taking immediate action to halt the purchase of all products from the affected Prairie Farms facility and ensure that impacted products are removed from distribution nationally. The company's utmost concern is protecting consumers, and it is working closely with regulatory agencies to prevent further illnesses. A timeline of events related to the outbreak includes: * 2018: The CDC begins investigating Listeria illnesses in long-term care facilities and nursing homes * October: The CDC reopens the investigation after six new cases are reported * February 2025: The outbreak strain of bacteria is discovered in Prairie Farms samples * February 2025: Lyons Magnus recalls Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial frozen supplemental shakes * February 2025: The FDA conducts an onsite investigation at the Prairie Farms facility