A multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes linked to frozen supplemental shakes has resulted in at least 42 illnesses, 41 hospitalizations, and 14 deaths, according to a joint report from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak was traced back to frozen supplemental nutrition shakes distributed under the Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brands, manufactured by Prairie Farms at its Fort Wayne, Indiana facility.
The Outbreak: Timeline and Scope
The investigation into the outbreak began in early 2025 after clusters of Listeria monocytogenes infections were reported in multiple states. The cases appeared across 21 states, with a total of 42 confirmed infections as of May 16. Alarmingly, 41 of the 42 patients required hospitalization, and 14 individuals died as a result of the Listeria infection. The national food poisoning lawyer, Ron Simon, emphasizes these high rates underscore the severity of Listeria monocytogenes, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic illnesses.
The Source: Prairie Farms’ Fort Wayne Facility
After thorough traceback and environmental sampling efforts, federal and state officials linked the outbreak to frozen supplemental shakes produced at the Prairie Farms Dairy facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The implicated products were distributed under Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brands, commonly used in healthcare settings, including hospitals and long-term care facilities, where patients with nutritional deficiencies may be more susceptible to severe foodborne infections such as Listeria.
Following the investigation findings, Lyons Magnus LLC issued a voluntary recall on the affected products on February 21, 2025. The recall covered 4 oz. frozen shakes with best-by dates between 022125 and 022126, corresponding to February 21, 2025 through February 21, 2026. These products were intended to be refrigerated or frozen and were not meant for immediate consumption without proper storage and preparation.
FDA officials have since confirmed that the recalled products should no longer be available in the market, and the CDC has declared the outbreak over.
Listeria monocytogenes: A Deadly Pathogen
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that causes listeriosis, a serious infection often contracted by eating contaminated food. Unlike many other foodborne pathogens, Listeria can grow at refrigeration temperatures, making it especially dangerous in products like dairy-based shakes, soft cheeses, and ready-to-eat meats.
Symptoms typically appear within 1 to 4 weeks of exposure but can start as late as 70 days after ingestion. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Nausea or diarrhea
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion or convulsions in severe cases
In pregnant individuals, listeriosis can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn.
According to the CDC, approximately 1,600 people get listeriosis each year in the U.S., and about 260 die from it. The mortality rate is particularly high compared to other foodborne illnesses, making prompt detection and reporting critical.
Industry and Public Health Response
In light of the outbreak, both Prairie Farms and Lyons Magnus have cooperated with health officials to implement corrective measures. These include enhanced environmental monitoring, sanitation improvements, and stricter control of the production environment to reduce the risk of contamination.
The FDA and CDC are urging healthcare providers, retailers, and consumers to verify that no affected products remain in storage. They also emphasized the need for improved vigilance in institutional food settings, where many of the victims were likely exposed.
This incident has reignited calls for stronger oversight of ready-to-eat and high-risk food items, particularly those intended for vulnerable populations. It also highlights the importance of traceability and prompt public communication when contamination is identified.
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
The Prairie Farms–linked Listeria outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with contaminated food products in institutional care settings. Despite improvements in food safety technology, the risk of large-scale outbreaks remains, especially when pathogens like Listeria can survive and multiply in cold environments.
Consumers, healthcare providers, and food service operations should take the following precautions:
- Always check recall notices and remove affected products immediately.
- Store and prepare foods according to label instructions, especially refrigerated and frozen products.
- Clean and sanitize surfaces regularly, particularly in high-volume settings like hospitals and nursing homes.
- Educate staff and caregivers on food safety protocols for vulnerable individuals.
Final Note
Though the outbreak has been declared over, the implications continue. With 42 cases and 14 tragic deaths, this outbreak is a sobering example of how even small, seemingly benign food items, like a nutrition shake, can become lethal. It underscores the ongoing need for vigilance, regulatory oversight, and public awareness when it comes to food safety in America.
