FDA Recalls Frozen Shakes After Deadly Listeria Outbreak Linked to 11 Deaths

A nationwide recall by the FDA is underway after frozen supplemental shakes sold under the Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brands were linked to a deadly Listeria outbreak.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed that the contaminated products have caused 38 infections and 11 deaths since 2018, primarily affecting vulnerable individuals in nursing homes and hospitals.

The recall affects various flavors and packaging sizes of the shakes, which were distributed to healthcare facilities across multiple states. The FDA is urging all institutions and consumers to immediately stop using the products and check their inventories for any affected items.

Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria responsible for the outbreak, can cause severe and sometimes fatal infections, especially in older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea, and the infection can spread to the nervous system, causing headaches, confusion, and convulsions.

How the Outbreak Unfolded

Health officials first began investigating the outbreak after a series of unexplained infections were reported in hospitals and long-term care facilities. Genetic testing linked the cases to frozen shakes produced by Lyons Magnus, the parent company of Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial. Production of the contaminated products has since been halted, and the company is cooperating with federal investigators.

According to the FDA, the bacteria were found in production facilities during routine inspections, raising concerns about food safety protocols and contamination risks. “This outbreak highlights the critical importance of strict hygiene measures in food production, particularly for products consumed by vulnerable populations,” the FDA stated.

What Consumers and Facilities Should Do

Healthcare facilities, nursing homes, and consumers are advised to:

• Check Storage Areas: Identify and dispose of any recalled shakes immediately.
• Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for signs of Listeria infection, especially in high-risk individuals.
• Contact Healthcare Providers: Seek medical attention if infection symptoms appear, as early treatment can be life-saving.

Consumers can visit the FDA’s website for a complete list of recalled products, including lot numbers and expiration dates. Anyone with questions can contact Lyons Magnus customer service for assistance.

A Pattern of Food Safety Failures?

This isn’t the first time Lyons Magnus has faced scrutiny. In 2022, the company recalled several nutritional and beverage products due to microbial contamination, though no illnesses were reported at that time. The recurring issues have sparked criticism of the company’s quality control measures and raised questions about regulatory oversight within the food industry.

What’s Next?

The FDA is continuing its investigation to determine how the contamination occurred and whether additional products may be affected. Meanwhile, consumers are urged to stay vigilant and report any adverse reactions to their healthcare providers and the FDA’s MedWatch program.

This tragic outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety, especially when it comes to products intended for vulnerable populations. As the investigation unfolds, both the FDA and Lyons Magnus have pledged to take all necessary steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.