Fourteen deaths have been linked to a multistate Listeria outbreak stemming from frozen supplemental shakes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration. The agencies announced Friday that the number of illnesses has risen to 42, spanning 21 states, with 41 hospitalizations reported.
The outbreak was traced to products manufactured by Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. In Fort Wayne, Indiana, and distributed by Lyons Magnus LLC under the Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brand names. A recall was issued on February 22, 2025, for 4-ounce cartons of the affected shakes, but the FDA stated that the recalled products are no longer available for sale.
The shakes were primarily distributed to long-term care facilities and were intended for individuals requiring soft diets. The CDC noted that cases began appearing as early as 2018, with a surge in illnesses occurring in 2024 and 2025. The agency explained that Listeria is a resilient germ capable of surviving on surfaces for extended periods, contributing to the outbreak’s longevity.
Listeria infection, known as listeriosis, poses a heightened risk to pregnant women, adults aged 65 or older, and individuals with compromised immune systems. For pregnant women, the infection can lead to pregnancy loss, premature birth, or life-threatening infections in newborns. In older adults and immunocompromised individuals, listeriosis frequently results in hospitalization and can be fatal.
Symptoms of listeriosis typically manifest within two weeks of consuming contaminated food, though onset can range from the same day to as late as 10 weeks after exposure. Symptoms vary but can include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and seizures. Pregnant women may experience fever, muscle aches, and tiredness.
The CDC and FDA utilized environmental testing and whole genome sequencing to identify the source of the outbreak, a process that had previously hindered investigations. The outbreak investigation is now considered closed, according to the FDA.
The CDC advises individuals to discard any recalled products and thoroughly clean refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with them. Anyone experiencing symptoms after potential exposure is urged to seek immediate medical attention. Businesses are advised to review the FDA’s recall notice and ensure compliance.
