by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors
A multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections has been linked to Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial frozen supplemental shakes manufactured by Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc., in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
The recalled products were distributed nationwide to food service customers, including hospitals and long-term care facilities (LTCFs). The affected items include a variety of frozen shakes under the Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brands. Prairie Farms Dairy has been identified as the manufacturer; production takes place at its Fort Wayne facility.
Details of the Recall
Lyons ReadyCare Frozen Vanilla Shake
Lyons ReadyCare Frozen Chocolate Shake
Lyons ReadyCare Frozen Strawberry Shake
Lyons ReadyCare Frozen Strawberry Banana Shake NSA
Sysco Imperial Frozen Vanilla Shake
Sysco Imperial Frozen Chocolate Shake, among others.
Symptoms and Risks
Listeria infection can cause symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. Severe cases may lead to headaches, confusion, loss of balance, or convulsions. Pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk for severe complications.
Infections during pregnancy can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe infection in newborns. The CDC recommends that anyone experiencing symptoms of listeriosis contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Investigation Findings
The FDA’s inspection of Prairie Farms Dairy’s Fort Wayne facility uncovered environmental contamination. Three swabs collected from the processing area tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, and genetic sequencing confirmed a close relation to the outbreak strain.
Case Breakdown
Total Cases: 38
Hospitalizations: 37
Deaths: 12
States Affected: AL, CA, CO, CT, FL, IL, IN, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, WA, WV
Recommendations for Consumers and Institutions
The FDA and CDC urge distributors, food service providers, and consumers to:
Stop serving or consuming recalled products.
Sanitize surfaces and containers exposed to the shakes.
Follow the FDA’s cleaning and food safety guidelines to prevent further contamination.
At-Risk Groups
The outbreak predominantly affects older adults and residents of LTCFs, who are more likely to consume supplemental shakes. Pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals are also strongly advised to avoid recalled products.
Current Status
The FDA’s investigation is ongoing. More information will be provided as it becomes available. Lyons Magnus LLC and Prairie Farms Dairy are cooperating with federal agencies to address the contamination and prevent future outbreaks.
For additional details, visit the CDC’s Food Safety Alert or the FDA’s website, and contact Lyons Magnus LLC or the FDA for further recall instructions.
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Source: Black Enterprise
