CaliToday (05/11/2025): Federal health officials are investigating a deadly, multi-state outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections that has been linked to a recalled, ready-to-eat pasta product. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the outbreak has tragically resulted in six deaths.
In an investigation notice issued Tuesday, November 4, the CDC, in collaboration with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), reported a total of 23 known infections spread across at least eight states, including California, Massachusetts, and Florida. Due to the severity of the infections, 21 of those individuals have been hospitalized.
The six deaths were reported among elderly individuals and those with compromised immune systems.
Recall Information
The FDA has identified "Bella's Homestyle Pasta," a brand of refrigerated, ready-to-eat pasta salad, as the likely source of the outbreak. The manufacturer, a large-scale food processing company based in the Midwest, has issued a voluntary recall for several of its products.
Recalled Products: The recall includes "Bella's Homestyle Pasta Salad" and "Bella's Deli Macaroni Salad" sold in 12 oz and 32 oz plastic containers.
Distribution: The products were distributed nationwide to major supermarkets and deli counters.
Identifying Dates: Consumers are urged to check for products with "Use By" dates from October 1, 2025, through November 3, 2025.
Public Health Warning: "Do Not Eat"
Health officials are issuing a stark warning to the public.
"We urge all consumers to check their refrigerators for these recalled products immediately," said a CDC spokesperson. "Do not eat, serve, or sell them, regardless of their appearance or smell. Throw them away immediately."
The CDC also emphasizes the danger of Listeria cross-contamination. The bacteria can survive at refrigerated temperatures and can easily spread to other foods and surfaces. Officials advise:
Dispose of the product in a sealed bag in the garbage.
Clean your refrigerator, containers, and any surfaces that may have touched the recalled product.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling the product or cleaning.
About Listeriosis
Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. It is a particular threat to specific high-risk groups:
Pregnant women and their newborns
Adults aged 65 or older
Individuals with weakened immune systems (due to conditions like cancer, diabetes, or HIV)
Symptoms for most people include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, and stiff neck. In pregnant women, the infection can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature delivery. In the elderly and immunocompromised, it can lead to severe complications, including septicemia (blood infection) and meningitis (inflammation of the brain).
The CDC and FDA are continuing to investigate to determine if any other products or brands are affected.