RECALL UPDATE: Pasta Recall Sparks Warning in 8 States
According to News Week, Frozen Fettuccine Alfredo entrees sold in at least eight states have been recalled over concerns of potential contamination with a dangerous bacteria.
Recall Notice
A recall notice shared on the website of supermarket chain Wegmans on Friday warned consumers about 8-ounce packages of Michelina’s brand “Fettuccine Alfredo Entree w/ Chicken & Broccoli.” These products were recalled due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause severe and sometimes fatal infections.
Affected Products and Distribution
While Michelina’s is available in various stores across the U.S., this recall primarily applies to products sold at Wegmans. Wegmans operates in the District of Columbia and the following eight states: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Delaware, North Carolina, Massachusetts, and Maryland.
The recalled entrees feature the following details:
- UPC Number: 71785410521
- Product Codes: J4274, J4233, J4269
- Best By Dates: 9/30/2025, 8/20/2025, 9/25/2025
Customer Guidance
Wegmans has advised customers who purchased the recalled items to return them for a full refund. For additional questions regarding the recall, consumers can contact Michelina’s manufacturer, Bellisio Foods, at 1-866-240-5364 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Eastern Time.
Understanding Listeriosis
Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, can lead to severe symptoms even in otherwise healthy individuals. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 260 of an estimated 1,600 annual cases are fatal.
While many listeriosis infections primarily affect the digestive system, symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting can develop within 24 hours after consuming contaminated food. A more invasive form of the illness can manifest within two weeks, presenting symptoms like fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and seizures. The CDC reports that about 1 in 20 people who contract the invasive form of listeriosis without being pregnant will die from the illness.
Risks for Pregnant Individuals
For pregnant individuals, listeriosis symptoms are generally mild or may go unnoticed. However, the invasive illness can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns, according to the CDC.
Ongoing Concerns and Recent Outbreaks
Although cases of listeriosis are relatively rare, outbreaks occur sporadically, leading to food product recalls. Earlier this year, an outbreak linked to recalled Boar’s Head deli meats resulted in 10 deaths and at least 59 illnesses. The CDC emphasized that the true number of individuals affected by such outbreaks is likely higher than reported, as some may recover without seeking medical care or testing.
