Walmart pasta recall expands to all lots after listeria detection

Key points

• The recall now covers all lots of Bettergoods Authentic Italian Lemon Alfredo Fettuccine, not just the two initially identified.
• The product is sold in 22-ounce yellow plastic containers at Walmart stores nationwide.
• Listeria monocytogenes was detected during routine sampling by state agricultural departments.
• No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled product.
• Gias Foods has ceased distribution and is cooperating with the FDA investigation.

Background

This recall follows a Sept. 15 announcement that limited the scope to two specific lots of the same pasta. It is part of a broader trend of food safety alerts at major retailers, including a recent E. coli outbreak linked to frozen berries and a foreign material recall of non-dairy ice cream at Walmart and Target earlier this month.

How outlets are covering it

USA Today and WDBJ7 report the expansion of the recall to all lots, emphasizing the FDA's advisory against consumption. BainbridgeGA.com provides additional detail, noting that the contamination was detected through routine sampling by the Washington and Florida Departments of Agriculture. All sources agree that no illnesses have been reported, though they highlight the severe risks listeria poses to vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and the elderly.

Why it matters

Listeria can cause serious, life-threatening infections, particularly in high-risk groups. The expansion of the recall ensures that all potentially contaminated products are removed from shelves, protecting public health and maintaining consumer trust in major retail chains.

What to watch

The FDA and Gias Foods will continue their investigation to determine the cause of the contamination. Consumers are urged to check their pantries for the affected product and return it for a refund if found.