11 Dead in Listeria Outbreak, Linked to Frozen Supplemental Shakes Under Investigation

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to frozen supplemental shakes sold under the Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brands. These products, distributed to hospitals and long-term care facilities, have been associated with at least 38 reported illnesses, 37 hospitalizations, and 11 deaths across 21 states. The FDA has advised against selling or serving these shakes while the investigation continues.

The outbreak, which dates back to 2018, was first identified in November 2024 when the FDA received reports of Listeria monocytogenes infections, primarily affecting residents of long-term care facilities. Traceback investigations revealed that the affected facilities had received Lyons ReadyCare or Sysco Imperial frozen supplemental shakes. Environmental samples collected by the FDA confirmed the presence of the outbreak strain of Listeria. The CDC reports that 89% of affected individuals either lived in long-term care facilities or were hospitalized before falling ill.

Symptoms of Listeria infection can appear anywhere from the same day to 10 weeks after consuming contaminated food. They range from mild flu-like symptoms, such as fever and muscle aches, to more severe complications, including confusion, convulsions, and loss of balance. Pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for serious illness. The FDA has urged distributors and food service providers to stop using the implicated shakes and thoroughly sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with them.

A voluntary recall of certain Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial frozen supplemental shakes is currently underway. The FDA continues to work with the recalling firms and will provide updates as more information becomes available. The affected states include Alabama, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and West Virginia.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors.

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