TLDR
- Listeria alert hits Walmart meal, 20 infected, 4 dead across 15 states.
- Walmart pasta meal linked to listeria; outbreak causes multiple deaths.
- USDA warns of listeria in Walmart-exclusive meal; 4 fatalities reported.
- Listeria outbreak tied to Walmart pasta; nationwide health alert issued.
- FreshRealm pasta sold at Walmart under listeria alert after fatal outbreak.
Walmart(WMT) shares edged higher on Thursday, closing at $103.16 with a modest 0.11% gain. In after-hours trading, the stock ticked up slightly to $103.20.
Listeria Outbreak Tied to Walmart Meal Raises Health Concerns
The U.S. Department of Agriculture flagged Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce for potential listeria contamination. Sold at Walmart in 12-ounce clear plastic trays, the product has best-by dates from September 22 to October 1. Consumers are urged to discard the meals or return them to the store.
FreshRealm, the producer, confirmed the contamination originated from linguine supplied by Nate’s Fine Foods of California. Tests linked the bacteria to the same strain responsible for a previous deadly outbreak. That earlier incident involved chicken fettuccine Alfredo sold at Walmart and Kroger, which resulted in multiple hospitalizations and fatalities.
The latest findings prompted the USDA to issue a formal health alert but not an official recall. Authorities say the affected items carry establishment numbers “EST. 50784” or “EST. 47718.” Investigations continue in coordination with the FDA and CDC to determine if more products are contaminated.
Public Health Impact Widens as Investigation Progresses
As of September 25, federal records confirmed 20 cases of listeria infection across 15 states. Nineteen people required hospitalization, and four fatalities have been reported. Additionally, a pregnancy-related case led to a fetal loss, intensifying concerns among vulnerable groups.
Listeria infections can be dangerous for the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women. Symptoms often include fever, muscle aches, confusion, and gastrointestinal issues. The Centers for Disease Control estimates about 1,600 infections and 260 deaths annually due to listeria.
This outbreak has renewed focus on food safety protocols and supply chain accountability. The USDA previously announced reforms in December to better prevent listeria contamination. The agency is monitoring this case closely and may update its guidance as more test results emerge.
Walmart Stock Unshaken by Health Alert as Investigations Continue
Despite the public health warning, Walmart’s stock showed resilience on the market. The modest gain suggests limited investor reaction to the unfolding situation. However, extended investigations and possible recalls could pose reputational and operational risks.
FreshRealm claims a third-party ingredient is likely responsible. The situation underscores ongoing supply chain challenges for large food retailers. FSIS continues to assess the risk and expects further updates if more contaminated products are found. Consumers are advised to stay informed and take precautionary measures. Regulatory bodies remain active in containing the health risks and tracing the contamination source.
