Fresh & Ready Foods is recalling more than 90 various ready-to-eat products on a voluntary basis. They made this move because of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause severe, life-threatening illness. We declared a recall on May 15th, 2025. It impacts over 2 dozen snack, salad, and sandwich varieties that were sent to retail in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Washington.
Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogenic bacteria that can cause life-threatening illness, including septicemia and meningitis. Especially concerning, vulnerable populations have a higher risk of acquiring infections from this dangerous pathogen. This is especially true for pregnant people, people 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says 10 have been hospitalized. These hospitalizations are associated with actual use of the impacted products.
Symptoms of a listeria infection can occur as soon as 12 hours after eating contaminated food. They can take up to 10 weeks to appear. This extended lag time makes it more difficult to track down the source of infection and puts food safety at risk. If you develop symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, or gastrointestinal symptoms after eating these products, please consult a healthcare provider right away. Your health should come first, always!
CDC’s investigation into this outbreak is ongoing. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been closely monitoring the situation. Public health authorities have identified the recalled products in certain states. As investigations unfold, they warn that food from other parts of the country could be impacted too.
Fresh & Ready Foods is currently in the process of recalling all affected products. They are making very clear and proactive decisions to protect the safety of their customers. If you purchased these items, be sure to look in your refrigerator immediately. Throw away any recalled item you own. The company claims it is continuing to work with health authorities to protect the public and to stop any additional cases of listeriosis from occurring.
For more information on Listeria monocytogenes and the risks associated with it, visit the CDC’s website here. It’s a great resource with user-friendly guidance on recognizing and reacting to suspected cases of listeria.
Leave a Reply