Kroger Recalls Deli Pasta Salads Over Listeria Risk

CINCINNATI, Oct. 4, 2025 – The Kroger Co. announced today that it is recalling its Basil Pesto Bowtie Salad and Smoked Mozzarella Penne Salad sold in Kroger Family of Stores across 26 states due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

The recall affects products sold from August 29, 2025, to October 2, 2025, at 1,860 store locations, including Kroger, Baker’s, City Market, Dillons, Fred Meyer, Fry’s, Gerbes, King Soopers, Payless, Ralphs, and Smith’s banners. This move follows a similar recall initiated by Fresh Creative Foods, whose pasta supplier, Nate’s Fine Foods of Roseville, California, identified the contamination risk.

According to the FDA, Listeria monocytogenes can cause severe infections, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can range from high fever and severe headache to nausea and abdominal pain. Pregnant women face higher risks, with potential for miscarriage and stillbirth.

No illness has been reported in connection with the recalled products. Individuals who have purchased these salads are encouraged not to consume them and to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund or replacement.

Kroger has removed the affected salads from store shelves and activated its customer recall notification system, including alerts via register receipt messages and email. Customers with concerns or questions are invited to contact Kroger at 1-800-KROGERS, available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to midnight and Saturday to Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET.