Michigan residents are being urged to check their freezers after significant recalls of frozen chicken products linked to a Listeria outbreak have come to light. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced that a total of 17 individuals across 13 states have fallen ill, with three reported fatalities and one fetal loss associated with this health scare.
The recalled products include various ready-to-eat chicken meals sold in major retail chains like Kroger and Walmart. These products come from FreshRealm and are packaged in tray form. Consumers should carefully inspect their freezers and look for the impacted items, which carry specific best-by dates and establishment numbers.
The affected items include the 32.8-ounce tray of “MarkeSide Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine” with a best-by date of June 27, 2025, and a variation that also includes broccoli with a best-by date of June 26, 2025. Additionally, a 12.5-ounce tray under the “Home Chef” brand is part of the recall, which is marked with a best-by date of June 19, 2025.
All recalled products are marked with the USDA stamp of inspection and include establishment numbers P-50784, P-47770, or P-47718. The recall has drawn attention as public health officials work swiftly to determine the source of this outbreak and prevent further illness.
Health experts have stressed the potential severity of listeriosis, a condition caused by consuming contaminated food. Symptoms can range from fever and muscle aches to more serious neurological issues, making it particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and the elderly.
There is a notable urgency for consumers who may have purchased these products. Health officials advise against consuming these meals and recommend that they be discarded or returned to the point of purchase to mitigate any risk.
As investigations continue, public health authorities are emphasizing the importance of food safety practices, including checking expiration dates and properly storing food, to prevent outbreaks such as this one in the future. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about further developments related to the recall and to take necessary precautions while preparing meals.