The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state health officials are investigating a multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to certain home delivery meals produced by Metabolic Meals. As of September 5, 2025, 16 people across 10 states have been infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Enteritidis, resulting in 7 hospitalizations. No deaths have been reported.
Affected Products and Timing
The outbreak is associated with specific ready-to-eat meals delivered during the week of July 28, 2025. The identified products and their lot codes include:
- Four Cheese Tortellini with Pesto Sauce and Grilled Chicken (Lot Code: 25199; Best By: 08/07/2025)
- Low Carb Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables (Lot Code: 25202; Best By: 08/05/2025)
- Black Garlic & Ranch Chicken Tenders with Roasted Vegetables (Lot Code: 25205; Best By: 08/08/2025)
- Sliced Top Sirloin with Roasted Peanut Sauce and Summer Vegetables (Lot Code: 25203; Best By: 08/06/2025)
- Additional lot codes under investigation include 25204.
Epidemiological and Laboratory Findings
Epidemiological data show that 83% of interviewed patients reported consuming Metabolic Meals products before falling ill. Genetic analysis using whole genome sequencing confirmed that bacterial samples from infected individuals were closely related, indicating a common source of contamination. The outbreak strain exhibits predicted resistance to nalidixic acid and nonsusceptibility to ciprofloxacin (NSC), which may complicate antibiotic treatment if required.
Public Health Response and Recommendations
Metabolic Meals is collaborating with investigators and has directly notified customers who purchased the affected meals. While no formal recall has been issued, consumers are urged to:
- Discard any affected products or contact the company for disposal instructions.
- Thoroughly sanitize surfaces and utensils that may have contacted the meals using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
- Seek medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms such as diarrhea exceeding 102°F, prolonged diarrhea lasting more than three days, bloody stools, or signs of dehydration.
Symptoms and At-Risk Groups
Most Salmonella infections cause diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps within 6 hours to 6 days of exposure. While most recover without treatment after 4–7 days, children under 5, adults over 65, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for severe illness requiring hospitalization.
Ongoing Investigation
The true number of cases is likely higher than reported, as many recover without medical care. The CDC notes that recent illnesses may not yet be linked to the outbreak due to the typical 3 to 4 week delay in confirmation. The federal and state-level investigations remain ongoing.
Yet Another Outbreak
The CDC is also investigating another Salmonella outbreak, this one linked to contaminated eggs that has resulted in 95 reported illnesses across 14 states as of August 2025. Among those affected, 18 people have required hospitalization, though no deaths have been reported. National Salmonella law firm Ron Simon & Associates are actively investigating this outbreak.
