Listeria Outbreak Linked to Chicken Alfredo Meals Triggers Major Recall After 3 Deaths

A popular comfort food has become the center of a deadly health scare. FreshRealm, the company behind ready-to-eat chicken Alfredo meals found in Walmart and Kroger stores, has recalled several batches after a listeria outbreak killed three people and caused the loss of a pregnancy. The meals were sold under the Marketside and Home Chef brands, with best-by dates ranging through late June and USDA inspection codes P-50784, P-47770, or P-47718.

While the contaminated batch was destroyed earlier this year during a March inspection, the listeria strain was later found in patients across 13 states—tracing a disturbing pattern back to the products. The CDC is now digging deeper into the outbreak, urging the public to stay alert and avoid any of the meals listed in the recall, even if they’ve been stored in the freezer.

Listeria can be especially dangerous for those with weakened immune systems, older adults, and pregnant women. Health officials warn that symptoms can escalate quickly, and medical attention should be sought at the first sign of illness. It’s a chilling reminder that what’s in your fridge can sometimes carry far more risk than expected.