#United States #Lancaster #Listeria #FreshRealm #Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

FreshRealm's Voluntary Recall of Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Meals

In a proactive measure for consumer safety, FreshRealm, Inc. has announced a voluntary recall of specific chicken fettuccine alfredo products. These items have been sold at popular retail chains such as Walmart and Kroger amidst concerns regarding potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This bacteria can lead to severe health complications, and the recall comes at a time when food safety remains a paramount concern for both consumers and regulatory bodies.

Products Involved in the Recall

The affected products include:

• - Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine (12.3 oz)
• - Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine (32.8 oz)
• - Home Chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo (12.5 oz)

FreshRealm’s action involves notifying Walmart and Kroger to ensure these meals are removed from shelves and inventory across their stores nationwide. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged to either destroy them or return them to the retailers for a full refund.

Reason for the Recall

The recall is initiated as a precaution while an investigation is underway to determine how Listeria may have entered these products. This will involve examining processes and ingredients sourced from both FreshRealm facilities and external suppliers. Currently, there have been no direct reports of illnesses associated with the consumption of these meals, although health authorities are looking into incidents that may be linked to the products. Notably, four consumers have reported eating the chicken alfredo meals, with the investigation encompassing 17 total cases, including three deaths and one pregnancy loss.

Health Risks of Listeria

Listeriosis, the disease caused by Listeria monocytogenes, can be particularly dangerous, especially for more vulnerable populations, such as older adults, individuals with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women. Symptoms of listeriosis can manifest as fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and in some cases, convulsions, sometimes accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms. Anyone who feels unwell after consuming the recalled products is strongly advised to seek medical attention.

Commitment to Food Safety

FreshRealm's top priority is consumer safety. The company has expressed its commitment to high standards of food safety and is collaborating fully with the Food and Drug Administration, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They aim to ensure transparency and thorough access throughout the investigation process.

Contact Information

For further inquiries, consumers can contact FreshRealm's customer service at 888-244-1562. Additionally, members of the media can reach out to Mary Beth Lowell via email or by phone for more information regarding the recall.

In conclusion, while this voluntary recall has the potential to cause concern, it is a step forward in prioritizing public health and safety. Consumers are reminded to stay informed and cautious regarding food safety alerts and recalls.