Frozen Treats Recalled After Deadly Infection Discovered Across Several States

Notebook with product recall text magnifying glass pen

A deadly listeria outbreak linked to frozen shakes has claimed 11 lives and infected 38 people across 21 states, prompting an urgent FDA recall.

Key Takeaways

11 deaths and 38 infections reported across 21 states due to listeria contamination in frozen shakes
Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brands identified as sources of contaminated products
89% of infected individuals were in long-term care facilities or hospitalized before illness
FDA issues urgent recall and warning to discard affected products
Outbreak includes cases dating back to 2018 and is ongoing

Deadly Outbreak Linked to Frozen Shakes

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent recall of Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental milkshakes due to a severe listeria outbreak. The contamination has resulted in 11 deaths and 38 infections across 21 states, including Pennsylvania. The outbreak, which dates back to 2018 and is still ongoing, has primarily affected residents in long-term care facilities and hospitals.

Of the 38 infected individuals, 37 were hospitalized, with 89% either living in long-term care facilities or hospitalized before falling ill. The FDA’s investigation has revealed that both Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brands are sources of the contaminated shakes, leading to a voluntary recall of certain products.

Recall Details and Safety Measures

The recall, announced on February 22, 2025, affects frozen supplemental shakes manufactured by Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. at their Fort Wayne, Indiana facility. These products were primarily distributed to long-term care facilities and are not available for retail sale. Lyons Magnus LLC, in cooperation with Prairie Farms, Sysco, and the FDA, has initiated the recall and ceased purchasing from the affected facility.

The FDA advises hospitals and long-term care facilities to immediately stop serving these shakes and sanitize any surfaces they may have contacted. Consumers are urged to quarantine recalled products and can contact Lyons Magnus for more information. A comprehensive list of specific recalled products, including item numbers and best-by dates, has been provided by the FDA.

Health Risks and Symptoms

Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can appear as soon as the same day or up to 10 weeks after consuming contaminated food, with most cases developing within two weeks.

In a statement, the USDA said, “Persons in the higher-risk categories who experience flu-like symptoms within two months after eating contaminated food should seek medical care and tell the health care provider about eating the contaminated food.”

Non-pregnant individuals may experience symptoms such as headache, stiff neck, confusion, and fever. Pregnant women might experience fever, fatigue, and muscle aches. The infection can lead to severe complications, including pregnancy loss, premature birth, and serious illness or death in newborns.

Ongoing Investigation and Company Response

The FDA and CDC are continuing their investigation into the outbreak to determine its full scope and prevent further health risks. Sysco, one of the companies involved in the recall, has expressed condolences and emphasized their commitment to food safety.

In a statement to CNN, Sysco said it, “expresses our most sincere condolences with those affected by this outbreak and their families. Food safety is and will continue to be our top priority, and our focus will always be on improving these programs that protect our customers and our communities from foodborne illnesses.”

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging vigilance and strict adherence to the recall guidelines to prevent further infections and protect vulnerable populations from this deadly outbreak.