A batch of ready-to-eat meals sold at Walmart has triggered a public health alert due to potential contamination with listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious foodborne illness. The alert was issued following testing conducted by federal health officials as part of an ongoing investigation linked to a previous outbreak in June 2025, which resulted in several hospitalizations and fatalities.
The affected product, “Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce,” was identified through testing as containing ingredients that tested positive for listeria. These ingredients include linguine supplied by Nate’s Fine Foods, a company based in Roseville, California. The same type of linguine was previously involved in a separate recall, which resulted in three deaths and 16 additional hospitalizations.
In light of this latest development, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has urged consumers who purchased this product not to eat it. Instead, they should safely dispose of it or return it to the retailer. The FSIS has expressed concern that some of these products may still be present in households, and has provided guidance for consumers to ensure safety in food consumption.
Listeriosis, the infection caused by listeria monocytogenes, primarily affects vulnerable populations, including older adults, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women. Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues, and it can lead to more severe complications such as miscarriages or serious infections in newborns. Health officials advise individuals within high-risk categories who experience flu-like symptoms after consuming contaminated food to seek medical attention promptly.
Consumers are encouraged to identify the affected product by checking for the following details:
– Product: 12-ounce clear plastic tray packages labeled “Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce”
– “Best if used by” dates: Sept. 22, 2025, Sept. 24, 2025, Sept. 25, 2025, Sept. 29, 2025, Sept. 30, 2025, and Oct. 1, 2025.
– Establishment numbers: EST. 50784 or EST. 47718.
For those with questions related to this alert, Nate’s Fine Foods can be reached by phone during business hours. The situation highlights the importance of vigilance regarding food recalls and the need for individuals to stay informed about potential health risks associated with the food products they consume.
