Listeria Outbreak Linked to Frozen Shakes Claims 11 Lives Nationwide

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — A deadly multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes has resulted in 38 reported illnesses across 21 states, with 37 hospitalizations and 11 deaths. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the outbreak on February 24, 2025.

The FDA was first notified of the outbreak on Nov. 25, 2024. According to their investigation, many affected individuals resided in long-term care facilities prior to falling ill. The traceback investigation revealed that these facilities had received shipments of the implicated frozen shakes, leading to increased scrutiny over food safety in healthcare settings.

In a concerning revelation, the CDC noted that cases of listeriosis linked to these products date back to 2018, with 20 of the cases occurring between 2024 and 2025. Among the 38 people for whom information is available, 34 had either been living in long-term care facilities or hospitalized before developing symptoms.

The FDA confirmed that certain Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes are being voluntarily recalled due to contamination. The recalled products have a Best By date ranging from February 21, 2025, to February 21, 2026.

Symptoms of listeriosis may appear as soon as the same day or as late as 10 weeks after consuming contaminated food and can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to more serious symptoms, including headaches, stiff necks, confusion, or even convulsions.

In light of the outbreak, the FDA has advised distributors and food service customers, including hospitals and nursing homes, to immediately cease selling or serving the affected products. Surfaces and containers that came into contact with the shakes should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to prevent cross-contamination.

Particularly vulnerable groups include pregnant women, newborns, adults aged 65 or older, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The FDA emphasized the importance of immediate medical attention for anyone experiencing symptoms of a Listeria infection, particularly those in high-risk categories.

Sysco, a distributor of the recalled shakes, expressed condolences to the families affected by the outbreak and stated that they are reviewing their supplier safety protocols in response to the incident. The company confirmed their cooperation with the FDA to help identify the source of the contamination.

The CDC’s ongoing investigation into the outbreak could lead to additional recalls if further positive tests are confirmed. As the situation develops, healthcare providers and food service operators have been instructed to discard all affected shakes immediately, highlighting the urgent need for vigilance in food safety practices within healthcare settings.