Grocery Chain Issues Recall of Deli Pasta Products Due to Listeria Threat

In a proactive safety measure, Albertsons Companies has voluntarily recalled several of its store-made deli items across 15 states, due to concerns about potential contamination with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The recall was initiated after the detection of a specific bowtie pasta from Nate's Fine Foods that might be linked to the bacteria. Although there have been no reported illnesses to date, health authorities and the company urge customers to exercise caution.

The affected products include a variety of pasta salads and dishes, such as Ready Meals Pesto Bowtie Pasta Salad, Basil Pesto Bowtie Pasta Salad, Grilled Chicken & Basil Pasta (Extra Large), and others under similar names. These items were available in numerous Albertsons-owned stores, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Pavilions, and several others, spanning states like California, Texas, Hawaii, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. The supplies were distributed by Fresh Creative Foods.

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria capable of causing severe infections, especially in vulnerable populations including pregnant women, newborns, seniors, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeriosis can range from mild flu-like signs to severe neurological complications involving headaches, stiffness, confusion, or seizures.

Customers who purchased these deli products are advised to avoid consumption and dispose of them immediately or return them for a full refund. The company emphasizes the importance of thorough cleaning and sanitation of surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated products, as prescribed by the FDA, since Listeria can survive refrigerated conditions and spread easily.

More details about the specific affected items, including UPC codes and expiration dates, are available on the Albertsons website. For any questions or concerns, customers can contact the company at 877-723-3929 during weekday hours.

For additional information on Listeria infections, refer to the Mayo Clinic's resources. This recall highlights the importance of food safety and vigilance in preventing foodborne illnesses.