Listeria Detected in Pasta Sold at Major U.S. Supermarkets
Foodborne Pathogen Survives Refrigeration and Freezing
Infections Reported in 18 States
At least six people have died and dozens have contracted food poisoning after consuming instant pasta sold at major supermarkets across the United States. U.S. health authorities have ordered a recall of the product and urged consumers to stop eating it.
On November 4 (local time), The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that "Listeria monocytogenes, a foodborne pathogen, was detected in instant pasta products from Nate's Fine Foods sold at major U.S. supermarkets such as Albertsons, Kroger, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Trader Joe's, prompting a recall that has been ongoing since June."
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 27 people have been infected since last year, with 25 of them hospitalized. The CDC noted, "The actual number of cases may be higher, as patients who did not visit medical facilities are not included in the count."
The company stated that it is cooperating with health authorities to determine the source of the contamination.
Cases have been reported in 18 states so far. There have been three cases each in California, Oregon, and Texas; two cases each in Hawaii, Louisiana, and Michigan. Single cases have also been reported in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Nevada, Ohio, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia, and Washington. The ages of patients range from 4 to 92 years old.
One death has occurred in each of the following states: Hawaii, Illinois, Michigan, Oregon, Texas, and Utah, bringing the total number of fatalities to six. In addition, it has been reported that one pregnant woman lost her fetus due to the infection.
Foodborne Pathogen 'Listeria Monocytogenes'...260 Deaths Annually
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that causes listeriosis in humans. It can enter food during processing, preparation, or packaging, and it survives even in refrigerated or frozen conditions. It is considered a leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States. According to the CDC, about 1,600 people are infected and 260 die from it each year.
Symptoms usually appear within two weeks of infection and include high fever, muscle aches, fatigue, stiff neck, confusion, and loss of balance. In severe cases, symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea may persist for one to three days.
Health authorities have strongly advised against consuming the affected product and recommended that households who have previously stored or prepared the product thoroughly clean their refrigerators, utensils, and containers. The CDC warned, "Listeria can survive inside refrigerators and can easily spread to other foods and surfaces."
In addition, pregnant women, people aged 65 and older, and those with weakened immune systems are urged to contact a healthcare provider immediately if they experience symptoms such as headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.
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