Pasta sold nationwide at Walmart recalled over concerns it is contaminated with deadly bacteria
Pasta sold at Walmart is being recalled over fears it may be contaminated with the deadly bacteria listeria monocytogenes.
Gias Foods of New York is recalling two lots of its bettergoods Authentic Italian Lemon Alfredo Fettuccine, which was distributed to Walmart stores nationwide.
The recall applies to the frozen pasta packaged in 22-ounce yellow plastic bags. The UPC number is 194346442706 and is marked with lot numbers L6079C or L6080C.
It has an expiration date of September 19 or September 20, 2027.
The recall was the result of a routine sampling program conducted by Washington State Department of Agriculture and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
The routine sampling revealed the finished products may contain the bacteria.
Gias Foods has stopped distribution of the product as it and the FDA investigate the cause of the potential contamination.
Officials are urging customers to not consume the product and either discard it or return it to the place of purchase.
The pasta product was distributed to Walmart stores nationwide
The recall applies to the frozen pasta packaged in 22-ounce yellow plastic bags
No illnesses have been reported in connection to this recall.
Listeria monocytogenes are bacteria that cause listeriosis.
Listeria can be found in moist environments, soil, water, decaying vegetation and animals, and can survive refrigeration and other food preservation measures.
Many foods can harbor the bug, but it is usually found in unpasteurized milk, soft cheeses and ready-to-eat foods, such as pre-packed sandwiches.
Cooked shellfish, cured meats and fish, including sushi and pre-cut fruit, are also a risk.
While most of the 1,250 Americans infected with listeria each year recover on their own, the infection can cause fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms.
It can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
About 250 Americans die of the infection each year, which can occur if the infection spreads beyond the gut and affects the central nervous system.
