CDC Issues Warning: Listeria Outbreak Linked to Supplement Shakes
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Understanding the Listeria Outbreak
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have identified a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to frozen supplement shakes. As of February 24, 2025, the outbreak has affected at least 38 individuals across 21 states, resulting in 37 hospitalizations and 12 fatalities (CDC Report).
This outbreak primarily impacted residents of long-term care facilities and hospitals, where the contaminated supplement shakes were distributed. Due to the serious health risks posed by Listeria, the CDC and FDA have issued urgent warnings and initiated a recall of the affected products.
Contaminated Products and Recall Information
The outbreak was traced to frozen supplement shakes manufactured by Prairie Farms Dairy Inc., at their Fort Wayne, Indiana facility. These products were sold under the brands:
- Lyons ReadyCare
- Sysco Imperial
These shakes were not available for retail purchase but were distributed primarily to hospitals and long-term care facilities across the United States. Facilities have been urged to discard all recalled products immediately.
Recall Details
On February 22, 2025, Lyons Magnus LLC issued a recall of all potentially contaminated 4-ounce frozen supplement shakes from these brands (FDA Recall Notice).
If you or your loved ones have consumed these products and are experiencing symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.
Health Risks of Listeria Infection
Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous foodborne bacterium that can cause severe infections, especially in high-risk populations such as older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The CDC warns that listeriosis can be life-threatening, leading to serious complications if not treated promptly.
Common Symptoms of Listeria Infection
The symptoms of listeriosis typically develop within a few days to several weeks after consuming contaminated food. Common signs include:
- Fever and chills – Persistent high fever accompanied by muscle aches.
- Severe headaches – Often accompanied by dizziness and confusion.
- Nausea and vomiting – Digestive discomfort and potential dehydration.
- Stiff neck – A sign that the infection may be affecting the nervous system.
- Convulsions – Severe cases can lead to neurological issues and loss of balance.
Risks for Pregnant Women
Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to listeriosis, as it can lead to serious complications, including:
- Miscarriage or stillbirth – Listeria infection has been linked to pregnancy loss.
- Premature birth – Exposure to Listeria can lead to preterm labor.
- Neonatal infection – Newborns infected at birth may develop life-threatening conditions.
Because of these risks, the CDC advises pregnant women to avoid all recalled supplement shakes and monitor for any symptoms if they have consumed the contaminated products (CDC Listeria Prevention Guide).
How to Protect Yourself from Contaminated Supplements
Given the severity of this outbreak, it’s important to take precautionary measures to avoid listeriosis. The CDC and FDA recommend the following steps:
Check for Recalls
Before consuming any nutritional or supplement shakes, check if they have been recalled. You can verify recalls using the FDA’s food safety recall database.
Dispose of Contaminated Products
If you have Lyons ReadyCare or Sysco Imperial frozen supplement shakes, discard them immediately. These products should not be consumed, even if they do not appear spoiled.
Proper Food Handling & Storage
Listeria monocytogenes can survive in refrigerated conditions, so it’s essential to follow proper food safety practices:
- Thoroughly clean all kitchen surfaces where recalled products were stored.
- Wash hands with soap and warm water after handling contaminated items.
- Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw and cooked foods separate.
Seek Medical Attention if Symptoms Appear
If you experience fever, muscle aches, or severe gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming a recalled product, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment can help prevent severe complications.
How to Choose Safe, High-Quality Supplements
With the recent Listeria outbreak in supplement shakes, it is more important than ever to ensure that the supplements you consume come from reputable brands with strict quality control measures. Many consumers assume that all supplements undergo rigorous FDA testing, but in reality, the supplement industry is largely self-regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994.
Key Questions to Ask Before Buying a Supplement
To avoid contaminated or low-quality supplements, always ask the following questions before making a purchase:
- Has the product been tested for contaminants? – Look for brands that conduct third-party testing for bacteria, heavy metals, and toxins.
- Is the manufacturer FDA-inspected? – While the FDA does not approve supplements, it does inspect facilities periodically. Check the FDA’s inspection database to see if a brand has been inspected or cited (FDA Inspection Database).
- Are the ingredients transparent and backed by science? – Avoid products with proprietary blends that do not disclose ingredient amounts.
- Does the brand provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA)? – A COA verifies that the supplement has been tested for purity and potency.
- What kind of customer reviews does the product have? – Research consumer feedback and look for consistent reports of product efficacy and safety.
Signs of a Low-Quality Supplement
Not all supplements are created equal. Be cautious of products that:
- Contain artificial fillers, dyes, or preservatives that are not necessary.
- Do not disclose third-party testing or quality assurance procedures.
- Use proprietary blends without listing exact ingredient amounts.
- Are sold exclusively on third-party marketplaces with no direct brand website.
- Have been flagged by the FDA for violations or recalls.
How to Verify a Supplement’s Safety
If you are unsure whether a supplement brand is safe and reputable, follow these steps:
- Check for third-party testing certifications – Look for seals from NSF International, USP, or ConsumerLab.
- Look up the brand’s FDA inspection history – Use the FDA’s public records to see if a facility has been cited for safety violations.
- Review independent lab tests – Some brands provide full transparency by sharing their lab test results.
- Read ingredient labels carefully – Avoid any product with undisclosed or vague ingredient descriptions.
By taking these precautions, you can ensure that you are consuming supplements that meet high safety and quality standards, reducing the risk of exposure to contaminants like Listeria.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Listeria contamination occur in supplements?
Listeria monocytogenes can contaminate supplements during manufacturing, packaging, or storage if proper sanitation procedures are not followed. It thrives in cool environments, making frozen supplement shakes particularly vulnerable.
Who is most at risk from Listeria infection?
While Listeria can affect anyone, certain groups face higher risks of severe illness, including:
- Older adults – Weakened immune systems increase susceptibility.
- Pregnant women – Infection can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.
- Newborns – Infants can contract Listeria if exposed in utero.
- Individuals with weakened immune systems – Those undergoing chemotherapy or with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable.
What should I do if I consumed a recalled supplement shake?
If you or a loved one consumed one of the recalled Lyons ReadyCare or Sysco Imperial frozen supplement shakes, monitor for symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, or confusion. If any symptoms develop, seek medical attention immediately, as early treatment is crucial.
How can I check if a supplement brand has been inspected by the FDA?
You can check a brand's FDA inspection history using the agency’s public records database. Simply enter the brand or facility name to see whether they have undergone FDA inspections and if any violations were found (FDA Inspection Database).
What are the safest types of supplements to buy?
The safest supplements come from reputable brands that conduct third-party testing for contaminants, provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA), and have no history of FDA warnings or recalls. Look for USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab certifications to ensure high-quality standards.
Final Thoughts
The recent Listeria outbreak in supplement shakes highlights the importance of strict quality control in the supplement industry. While many consumers trust that all supplements are safe, this incident serves as a reminder to thoroughly vet brands before making a purchase.
Key Takeaways
- The Listeria outbreak linked to Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial shakes has resulted in 12 fatalities and 37 hospitalizations.
- Listeria monocytogenes poses severe risks to older adults, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.
- Consumers should immediately discard all recalled supplement shakes and clean any contaminated surfaces.
- Choosing third-party tested supplements from FDA-inspected facilities can help reduce contamination risks.
- Checking a brand’s FDA inspection history ensures that it meets strict manufacturing safety standards.
For consumers, health practitioners, and supplement retailers, the best way to protect yourself and your customers is to prioritize transparency, third-party testing, and rigorous safety protocols when selecting supplements.
