Outbreak Overview

Recent updates from federal and state health officials reveal a significant listeria outbreak associated with recalled frozen supplemental nutrition shakes. This outbreak has resulted in 38 reported infections, with 12 fatalities across 21 states.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has traced the source of these infections to products manufactured by Prairie Farms Dairy in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Investigative swabs from the processing area of the facility tested positive for listeria, prompting an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding this outbreak.

Timeline of the Investigation

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) initiated an investigation into this listeria outbreak as early as 2018, revisiting it again in 2021 and 2023. During these investigations, cases predominantly involved individuals in long-term care facilities or nursing homes; however, the specific food source remained unidentified until recent developments.

On October 2024, following the report of six new illnesses, the CDC reopened the investigation. By February 2025, traceback efforts identified a product of interest, culminating in the discovery of the outbreak strain in environmental samples collected from Prairie Farms.

States Affected

Consumers in the following states have reported cases of listeria linked to the recalled nutrition shakes:

• Alabama
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Florida
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• North Carolina
• Nevada
• New York
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Washington
• West Virginia

The ongoing outbreak has included illnesses dating back to 2018, with 20 cases confirmed both in 2023 and 2024.

Impact and Health Implications

Of the 38 individuals for whom data is available, 37 have required hospitalization due to their listeria infections. This outbreak’s death toll surpasses that of a previous listeria incident involving deli meats from Boar’s Head, which resulted in 10 deaths and 57 illnesses.

Listeria monocytogenes poses a serious threat, particularly to young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. While healthy individuals may experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, and gastrointestinal distress, the infection can lead to severe complications for vulnerable populations and pregnant women.

Recall Information

In response to the outbreak, Lyons Magnus, based in Fresno, California, recalled their four-ounce Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes. These products, distributed primarily to nursing homes, come in various flavors including vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and strawberry banana, with best-by-dates extending from February 21, 2025, to February 21, 2026.

Consumers in possession of the recalled shakes are advised to quarantine the products. For further instructions, please consult the company’s website or reach out via fr***************@ly*********.com.

Protecting Yourself from Foodborne Illness

With the recent listeria outbreak, it’s important to follow safety guidelines to prevent food poisoning. Always ensure that the foods you consume are safe and properly prepared to mitigate health risks.