Listeria outbreak linked to supplemental shakes kills 11 in US

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has revealed that an outbreak of listeria infections linked to frozen supplemental shakes has resulted in 11 deaths and at least 38 illnesses across 21 states in the country. 

The outbreak has been traced to certain Sysco Imperial and Lyons ReadyCare products distributed to food service providers, including hospitals and long-term care facilities.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that the outbreak includes cases dating back to 2018 but remains ongoing, with 20 cases reported in 2024 and 2025. The FDA has confirmed that its investigation into the outbreak is still underway.

Sysco announced on Friday that it has recalled the affected shakes, notified customers, and suspended purchases from a Lyons Magnus facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana, which supplied the products. 

In a statement, the company expressed condolences, saying, “Sysco expresses our most sincere condolences with those affected by this outbreak and their families.” 

The company also emphasised its commitment to food safety, stating, “Food safety is and will continue to be our top priority, and our focus will always be on improving these programs that protect our customers and our communities from foodborne illnesses.”

Listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the US, killing approximately 260 people annually. The infection, which can cause symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and in severe cases, seizures or confusion, is particularly dangerous for older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

Health officials advise that anyone experiencing symptoms of listeria infection seek medical care immediately. While most cases resolve without treatment, severe infections may require antibiotics.

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