Latest Listeria Outbreak Linked to Pregnancy Loss—What Expectant Moms Must Know

Latest Listeria Outbreak Linked to Pregnancy Loss—What Expectant Moms Must Know

M Hasan    4:39 AM   

Understanding the Listeria Outbreak and Its Impact on Pregnant Individuals

A recent Listeria outbreak has raised concerns across the United States. As of late October, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported seven new illnesses and two additional deaths linked to this outbreak. The source of the contamination is prepared pasta products sold at grocery stores nationwide. To date, 27 people in 18 states have been infected, with 25 hospitalizations and six fatalities. Tragically, one individual who contracted Listeria lost her pregnancy.

For pregnant individuals, this situation can be especially alarming. However, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the risk of infection and protect both the mother and the unborn child. Below is a detailed breakdown of what you need to know about this outbreak and how to stay safe.

What to Know About the Food Contaminated by Listeria

According to the latest CDC update, 27 people have been infected during this outbreak. Of those interviewed, 54% reported eating precooked meals, and 57% said they had consumed chicken fettuccine alfredo. Many of these meals were purchased from Walmart or Kroger’s refrigerated section. Some also mentioned consuming salads containing pasta from various stores.

Dr. Zachary Hoy, a board-certified pediatric infectious disease specialist, advises everyone to check their refrigerators for any of the recalled items and discard them if found. He notes that some products may have “best by” dates as late as October 29. A full list of affected products is available on the FDA website.

Dr. Sharon Nachman, chief of pediatric infectious diseases at Stony Brook Children's Hospital, explains that Listeria is a type of bacteria that can contaminate food. “Typically, we see Listeria outbreaks associated with unwashed produce, raw milk, cheeses, and deli meats,” she says. “Infected foods do not always smell bad, but if food does smell bad, it should be thrown out.”

All the Foods Affected by the Recall

The FDA has issued recalls for several products associated with the outbreak. These include:

• Sprouts Farmers Market Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad: Use by dates from 10/10/25 through 10/29/25
• Giant Eagle smoked mozzarella pasta salad: Expiration dates from 9/30/25 through 10/7/25
• Scott & Jon’s Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Bowls (9.6 oz): Best if used by dates from 3/12/2027 to 3/21/2027
• Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettucine Alfredo (16 oz): Best if used by dates from 9/20/2025 to 10/10/2025
• Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce (12 oz): Best if used by dates from 9/22/25 to 10/1/25
• Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine (12.3 oz and 32.8 oz): Best by dates up to 6/27/2025
• Home Chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo (12.5 oz): Best by date of 6/19/25 or prior
• Kroger deli bowtie and penne pasta salads: Recalled from August 29 through October 2, 2025
• Albertsons store-made deli pasta salads: Recalled with sell-by dates from September 8 to October 4, 2025

These products were sold at major retailers such as Walmart, Kroger, Albertsons, and Trader Joe’s.

What Else We Know About the Outbreak So Far

The outbreak began in June and was linked to prepared pasta dinners from food supplier Nate's Fine Foods. Cases have been reported in California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Washington.

What Are the Risks of Listeria, and Who Is Most at Risk?

While most low-risk individuals infected with Listeria may not require medical attention, higher-risk groups face more severe complications. Dr. Shira Doron, chief infection control officer for Tufts Medicine, explains that symptoms for lower-risk individuals typically include intestinal issues like diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. However, for high-risk individuals—such as pregnant women, newborns, people over 65, and those with weakened immune systems—symptoms can be more serious, including sepsis and meningitis.

What Are the Risks of Listeria to Pregnant People?

Pregnant individuals are at a significantly higher risk of contracting Listeria due to decreased immunity during pregnancy, according to Dr. Kecia Gaither, a double board-certified OB/GYN and maternal fetal medicine specialist. This increased vulnerability can lead to serious complications, including miscarriage, preterm delivery, severe newborn infections, stillbirth, or neonatal demise.

Symptoms of Listeria in pregnant individuals may resemble mild flu-like symptoms, such as headache, muscle aches, fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Neurological symptoms, like stiff neck, disorientation, or convulsions, may also occur. Symptoms can appear days or even up to two months after exposure to contaminated food.

If you suspect exposure to Listeria, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider immediately. A blood test can confirm the infection, and early antibiotic treatment can reduce risks to the fetus.

Listeria Symptoms in Newborns

Newborns can contract Listeria from their mothers during delivery. If your baby shows any of the following symptoms, contact their pediatrician right away:

• Extreme fatigue
• Vomiting
• No appetite
• Yellowish skin or eyes
• A skin rash
• Any trouble breathing

Listeria in newborns is diagnosed through blood, urine, or cerebrospinal fluid testing. Antibiotics are used for treatment. While the risk of transmission through breastmilk is low, seek guidance from your pediatrician if you are infected and breastfeeding.

How Can Pregnant People Protect Themselves from Listeria?

Prevention is key to avoiding Listeria infections. Dr. Gaither recommends avoiding the following foods during pregnancy:

• Deli meats and hot dogs unless reheated until steaming hot
• Refrigerated pate, meat spreads, or smoked seafood
• Unpasteurized milk and soft cheeses made from unpasteurized milk
• Raw or undercooked seafood, eggs, meat, or poultry
• Unwashed raw fruits and vegetables
• Ready-to-eat salads
• Unpasteurized juices

It is also important to seek medical care promptly if you or your newborn show any symptoms. If you live in an area affected by a food recall and have consumed any of the listed products, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

The Hidden Expense in Big Food: MAHA

The Hidden Expense in Big Food: MAHA

M Hasan    8:00 AM   

Ferrero's Acquisition of Kellogg Amid Health Controversies

In late June, executives from the Italian food giant Ferrero traveled across the United States, visiting cereal factories that were at the center of a growing public health debate. This move came as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump’s top health official, accused artificial dyes in WK Kellogg’s Froot Loops of poisoning American children. The cereal, which has been a staple in grocery stores since 1963, became a focal point for Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) agenda.

Ferrero had initially offered to acquire Kellogg, a company that was struggling financially. However, the deal involved navigating a complex political landscape. Kennedy’s campaign against processed foods and additives made it a risky proposition. After weighing these challenges, Ferrero reduced its offer by about $75 million, ultimately agreeing to buy the company for around $3.1 billion.

The MAHA agenda has created uncertainty for big food companies already facing shifting consumer preferences. Many states have adopted similar policies, passing laws to restrict certain food sales and investigating health claims. Food industry leaders are trying to understand how much of Kennedy’s agenda will materialize and what impact it could have on their profits. Balancing his push for healthier food with the need to produce products that consumers want is a major challenge.

Some companies have formed special teams to track ingredients under scrutiny and assess potential changes. Executives compare dealing with MAHA to battling the mythical Hydra—cutting off one head only to see two more grow in its place. Darren O’Brien, chief corporate and government affairs officer for Mondelez, noted that every day brings new proposals.

A string of companies, including Kraft Heinz, General Mills, and Nestlé, pledged to remove artificial dyes from U.S. products. Mars announced plans to offer some M&M’s and Skittles without dyes next year. The Consumer Brands Association encouraged food makers to eliminate dyes by the end of 2027.

Old-line brands like Lunchables, Twinkies, and Trix have struggled long before Kennedy’s arrival in Washington. Sales have declined for many big food companies that raised prices in recent years. Rising costs, increased use of weight-loss drugs, and heightened scrutiny over ultraprocessed foods are compounding challenges. An S&P index tracking packaged food and meat companies has fallen about 16% over the past year, while the overall market gained about 14%.

Food companies are making significant moves to adapt. Kraft Heinz is preparing to split into two companies, while Conagra and General Mills have shed legacy brands. At least five major food companies have announced CEO replacements this year, setting up the highest C-suite turnover in at least a decade, according to JPMorgan Chase.

An HHS spokesman said that Kennedy values ongoing engagement with the food industry and is encouraged by steps many companies are taking to improve nutrition and public health.

The Rise and Fall of Kellogg

Since the early 20th century, Kellogg has been synonymous with Battle Creek, also known as Cereal City. Its sprawling factory has spread the aroma of toasted grain throughout the town. Founded in 1906, Kellogg pioneered vitamin-fortified cereal and produced K-rations for U.S. troops during World War II. Mascots like Tony the Tiger and Toucan Sam became household names.

However, Americans have lost interest in breakfast cereal, causing problems for Kellogg. The company expanded over the years, adding snack brands such as Pop Tarts, Pringles, and Cheez-Its. In 2023, Kellogg separated its North American cereal business from snacks, renaming it WK Kellogg. Since then, it has posted year-over-year sales declines in every quarter.

Kennedy targeted Froot Loops as part of his MAHA campaign, criticizing the cereal giant for using artificial dyes in the U.S. while selling naturally colored versions in Canada. Vani Hari, a food activist known as the Food Babe, led protests outside Kellogg’s headquarters, demanding the removal of artificial dyes.

Kellogg and other food companies maintain that artificial dyes are safe and regulated. The company stated that most of its sales come from cereals without artificial colors and that international variations reflect different consumer preferences. A Kellogg spokeswoman emphasized the company’s commitment to health and wellness, noting changes to suit evolving consumer tastes.

For a product like Froot Loops, removing artificial dyes would be complex. In Canada, the dough uses coloring derived from carrots, watermelon, and blueberries. To switch to natural dyes in the U.S., Kellogg would need to secure large quantities of new ingredients and retool parts of its plants.

Navigating the MAHA Agenda

Food industry lobbyists began defending the sector on Capitol Hill after Trump’s re-election. They focused on lawmakers who might be sympathetic to the MAHA agenda, emphasizing the industry’s role in producing safe, convenient, and affordable food. The Consumer Brands Association (CBA) called for policies grounded in science and common sense.

The CBA set up a meeting between Kennedy and major food company CEOs, including Kellogg’s Pilnick. During the meeting, Kennedy made it clear that artificial dyes must go. Pilnick posed for pictures with Kennedy, signaling a shift in the company’s stance.

Inside the CBA, food company executives were divided on how to navigate the situation. Some went through multiple “stages of grief” before deciding to remove artificial dyes, while others resisted any retreat. Later, the CBA proposed phasing out artificial dyes and asked for the administration’s help on issues like natural dyes and tariffs.

Kennedy has not addressed concerns about state laws with varying requirements. Instead, he publicly thanked governors who have tightened food regulation, crediting them with giving HHS more leverage over food companies.

For Kellogg, the prospect of removing artificial dyes adds to financial pressures. Cereal, once a mainstay of American breakfast tables, is in decline. Over the past decade, consumers have shifted toward yogurt, bars, and shakes.

In the 12 months ending Aug. 9, U.S. consumers spent $197 million less on ready-to-eat cereal than in the previous year. In a 2023 survey, 39% of American adults reported eating heavily sweetened cold cereal, but that figure fell to 31% in the following year.

Cereal’s decline helped spur Kellogg’s decision to separate its cereal business from its larger and faster-growing snacks division, named Kellanova. This effectively put a for-sale sign on the cereal business.

Ferrero, known for brands like Nutella and Tic Tacs, approached Kellogg in April. The two companies had done business before, with Ferrero buying Kellogg’s Keebler cookie business in 2019. The family-owned company has been acquiring other U.S. brands, including Butterfinger and Blue Bunny.

Ferrero believes the cereal aisle lacks innovation, an area the company considers a strength. Over time, Kellogg’s posture on artificial dyes changed. In April, Kellogg announced plans to remove dyes from products made for schools and work with federal officials to eventually remove them from all products.

Ferrero executives determined they could handle the MAHA agenda. Costs to reformulate Kellogg products appeared manageable, and they felt reassured by their experience in Europe. They also don’t see Kellogg’s problems as unique—many in the food industry face similar pressures.

A private-equity firm also bid for Kellogg. On July 10, Kellogg’s board agreed to sell the company to Ferrero for roughly $3 billion. Later that day, Pilnick addressed employees, stating that planned investments in the local cereal plant would continue.

A week later, Kellogg announced it would remove artificial dyes from all its products by the end of 2027. “Froot Loops is finally following its nose—toward common sense,” Kennedy said on X. He called on more companies to follow suit.

4 Mistakes You're Making With Plastic Wrap, Says Reynolds

4 Mistakes You're Making With Plastic Wrap, Says Reynolds

M Hasan    11:00 AM   

Understanding the Proper Use of Plastic Wrap in the Kitchen

Plastic wrap is a common household item that offers convenience for food storage and cooking. However, improper use can lead to a variety of issues, including melted messes, food spoilage, and even safety risks. To ensure you're using plastic wrap effectively and safely, it's important to understand its limitations and best practices.

Key Limitations of Plastic Wrap

One of the most significant drawbacks of plastic wrap is its susceptibility to melting at high temperatures. Unlike the seal found on frozen meal packaging, which is designed for oven use, standard plastic wrap is made from polyethylene—a thin and flexible material that can easily melt when exposed to heat. This means that plastic wrap should never be used in ovens, grills, or other high-heat appliances. According to Charry Edwards Brown, senior manager at Reynolds Test Kitchen, plastic wrap should not be used at temperatures above 212°F (100°C).

Risks Associated with Certain Foods

Foods high in fat or sugar can also pose challenges when using plastic wrap. Fatty foods, especially those containing unsaturated fatty acids like vegetable oils, have a low melting point and can heat up quickly. This rapid heating can cause the plastic wrap to melt or even explode, leading to chemical leaching and splattering. Similarly, sugary foods, such as caramelized sugars, can reach high temperatures quickly and create bubbling effects that make them unsafe for use with plastic wrap.

Proper Venting and Spacing

When using plastic wrap in the microwave, it’s essential to vent the wrap properly. Failure to do so can result in steam buildup, which may cause the plastic to melt or even explode. To prevent this, turn back one corner of the wrap or make a small slit to allow steam to escape. Additionally, leaving about an inch of space between the food and the plastic wrap helps reduce the risk of the wrap melting onto the food. It’s also advisable to heat food in short intervals—around three minutes—to avoid overheating.

Creating an Airtight Seal

When storing food, creating an airtight seal with plastic wrap is crucial. This helps prevent air and moisture from entering, which can lead to drying, wilting, and oxidation. An airtight seal also helps keep odors from other foods from affecting the taste of your stored items. For freezing, using double layers of plastic wrap, freezer paper, or aluminum foil can help prevent freezer burn. A useful tip from Brown is to press plastic wrap over ice cream before sealing the container, as this helps keep air out and prevents ice crystal formation.

Alternatives to Plastic Wrap

There are several alternatives to plastic wrap that can be used depending on the cooking method. For oven, toaster oven, or air fryer use, aluminum foil and parchment paper are excellent choices due to their ability to withstand higher temperatures. Air fryer liners can also simplify cleanup. For slow cookers and pressure cookers, slow cooker liners are specifically designed for these appliances. When grilling or broiling, heavy-duty aluminum foil, such as Reynolds Grill Foil, is a durable and nonstick option.

Conclusion

Plastic wrap is a versatile tool in the kitchen, but it requires careful handling to avoid potential issues. By following expert advice, such as avoiding high-heat applications, being mindful of fatty and sugary foods, and using proper venting and spacing techniques, you can maximize the benefits of plastic wrap while minimizing risks. When necessary, alternatives like aluminum foil, parchment paper, and slow cooker liners offer safe and effective options for various cooking scenarios.