A multi-state listeria outbreak has led to the recall of frozen pasta meals sold at Trader Joe's and Walmart, with federal health officials confirming at least four deaths and 19 hospitalizations.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said Friday the outbreak has affected 20 people across 15 states.
According to FoxBusiness, the recalled meals include Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs and Marinara Sauce, sold at Walmart in 12-ounce trays, with "best if used by" dates of September 22, 24, 25, 29, 30, and October 1.
The recall was first issued in June but remains a concern because some products could still be in home refrigerators or freezers.
Also recalled is Trader Joe's Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo, marked with "best if used by" dates of September 20, 24, and 27. That product was added to the CDC's recall list in late September.
Both items were produced by FreshRealm, a company that previously detected listeria in its pre-cooked pasta during testing.
The US Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) warned consumers not to eat the recalled meals.
"FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers' refrigerators or freezers," the agency said.
Customers are urged to throw away the products or return them to the place of purchase.
RECALL: Health alert issued after 4 people are dead, inlcuding1 Utahn, from contaminated pasta meals purchased at Trader Joes and Walmart.
— Heidi Hatch KUTV (@tvheidihatch) September 30, 2025
Monday, officials with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food warned the public about food contamination in pasta products sold at… pic.twitter.com/wyEy4HfWG5
Read more: Ice Cream Recall: Blue Bell Pulls Half-Gallon Cartons from Walmart in 16 States Over Allergen Mix-Up
Pasta Meals Pulled Amid Deadly Listeria Threat
Trader Joe's said in a statement on its website, "At Trader Joe's, nothing is more important than the health and safety of our customers and Crew Members."
Walmart also confirmed the removal of the affected products, adding that the company is working with suppliers to investigate the issue.
Listeria poses the highest risk to people 65 and older, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women.
The bacteria can spread beyond the gut and cause invasive listeriosis, a life-threatening condition.
In pregnancy, even a mild infection can lead to miscarriage, premature birth, or serious illness in newborns, NY Post reported.
According to the CDC, common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.
Illness usually starts within two weeks of eating contaminated food but may appear the same day or up to 10 weeks later.
Health officials advise anyone who may have consumed the recalled products to clean refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have touched the meals. Listeria can survive in cold environments and spread to other foods.
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