Is your favorite snack making people sick? FDA recalls grab-and-go items after 10 hospitalizations
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If you’ve picked up a pre-made sandwich or snack from a hospital cafeteria, airport kiosk, or local convenience store recently, now might be a good time to double-check your fridge.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a serious recall involving popular ready-to-eat foods that have been linked to a listeria outbreak.
At least 10 people have been hospitalized across four states—some of them were already patients in medical facilities when they fell ill.
Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that can cause listeriosis—a potentially serious infection, especially for older adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
The outbreak has been traced to products made by Fresh & Ready Foods, LLC, a company that supplies sandwiches and snacks to hospitals, hotels, stores, and even airlines.
As of May 9, 2025, the FDA confirmed 10 hospitalizations—six of which occurred in patients who were already admitted for unrelated reasons.
This highlights just how dangerous listeria can be, especially in vulnerable environments.
Which items are included in the recall?
The recalled products were distributed between April 18 and April 28 and have "Use By" dates from April 22 to May 19.
Brands affected include:
Because these items were sold in so many different settings—not just grocery stores—it’s possible some people may not even remember where they picked them up.
If you’ve traveled recently or had a hospital visit, it’s worth checking any snacks you may have stored away.
Also read: Is your drink contaminated? Shocking FDA recall in 28 states you need to know about!
Why listeria is more dangerous than you might think
Unlike many foodborne bacteria, listeria can survive and even grow in cold temperatures like those in a refrigerator.
While it might only cause mild symptoms in healthy adults, it can lead to severe complications in older adults and others with compromised immune systems.
Symptoms to watch out for
Listeriosis symptoms may take hours—or even weeks—to appear after eating contaminated food.
Here's what to keep in mind:
Mild symptoms may include:
Also read: Is your car a ticking time bomb? Urgent recall issued over fire risks!
Severe symptoms could include:
If you—or someone in your care—experiences these symptoms, especially if you’re over 60 or have a health condition, seek medical help as soon as possible.
Also read: Silent threat in the snack aisle? New recall sparks urgent warning
How did this happen?
The FDA began investigating a listeria outbreak in 2024 but couldn’t identify the source.
In April 2025, new inspections at Fresh & Ready Foods’ facility revealed the bacteria in environmental samples.
Further testing confirmed it was the same strain from the earlier outbreak, prompting this voluntary recall.
What you should do now
Also read: Are your eggs contaminated? The shocking truth behind the urgent recall!
Tips to stay safe from listeria and other foodborne illnesses
As we grow older, our bodies may not respond as quickly or effectively to infections.
That’s why food safety is especially important for seniors and those already managing other health conditions.
This outbreak serves as a reminder to be cautious with pre-packaged items—especially those eaten cold—and to share safety updates with friends, neighbors, and loved ones.
Read next: Tomato recall linked to salmonella: What you need to know to stay safe
Have you ever gotten sick from a recalled food product? Do you have personal tips for staying safe with snacks and ready-made meals? We’d love to hear your stories and advice in the comments. By sharing, you might help someone else avoid a serious illness.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a serious recall involving popular ready-to-eat foods that have been linked to a listeria outbreak.
At least 10 people have been hospitalized across four states—some of them were already patients in medical facilities when they fell ill.
Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that can cause listeriosis—a potentially serious infection, especially for older adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
The outbreak has been traced to products made by Fresh & Ready Foods, LLC, a company that supplies sandwiches and snacks to hospitals, hotels, stores, and even airlines.
As of May 9, 2025, the FDA confirmed 10 hospitalizations—six of which occurred in patients who were already admitted for unrelated reasons.
This highlights just how dangerous listeria can be, especially in vulnerable environments.
Fresh & Ready Foods has issued a recall of several grab-and-go items after products were linked to a recent listeria outbreak. Image Source: FDA.
Which items are included in the recall?
The recalled products were distributed between April 18 and April 28 and have "Use By" dates from April 22 to May 19.
Brands affected include:
- Fresh & Ready Foods
- City Point Market Fresh Food to Go
- Fresh Take Crave Away
Because these items were sold in so many different settings—not just grocery stores—it’s possible some people may not even remember where they picked them up.
If you’ve traveled recently or had a hospital visit, it’s worth checking any snacks you may have stored away.
Also read: Is your drink contaminated? Shocking FDA recall in 28 states you need to know about!
Why listeria is more dangerous than you might think
Unlike many foodborne bacteria, listeria can survive and even grow in cold temperatures like those in a refrigerator.
While it might only cause mild symptoms in healthy adults, it can lead to severe complications in older adults and others with compromised immune systems.
Symptoms to watch out for
Listeriosis symptoms may take hours—or even weeks—to appear after eating contaminated food.
Here's what to keep in mind:
Mild symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
Also read: Is your car a ticking time bomb? Urgent recall issued over fire risks!
Severe symptoms could include:
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Loss of balance
- Seizures or convulsions
If you—or someone in your care—experiences these symptoms, especially if you’re over 60 or have a health condition, seek medical help as soon as possible.
Also read: Silent threat in the snack aisle? New recall sparks urgent warning
How did this happen?
The FDA began investigating a listeria outbreak in 2024 but couldn’t identify the source.
In April 2025, new inspections at Fresh & Ready Foods’ facility revealed the bacteria in environmental samples.
Further testing confirmed it was the same strain from the earlier outbreak, prompting this voluntary recall.
What you should do now
- Check your fridge: Discard any ready-to-eat snacks or sandwiches from the affected brands with "Use By" dates between April 22 and May 19—even if they look and smell fine.
- Clean your fridge and surfaces: Listeria can linger on shelves, containers, and counters. Sanitize anything that came into contact with the products.
- Stay updated: Visit the FDA’s website to see the complete list of recalled items and to report any symptoms or issues you’ve experienced.
Also read: Are your eggs contaminated? The shocking truth behind the urgent recall!
Tips to stay safe from listeria and other foodborne illnesses
- Always check recall notices before purchasing or eating pre-packaged foods
- Keep your fridge at 40°F (4°C) or lower to prevent bacterial growth
- Wash your hands and kitchen surfaces regularly, especially after handling RTE items
- When in doubt, throw it out—no deal is worth risking your health
As we grow older, our bodies may not respond as quickly or effectively to infections.
That’s why food safety is especially important for seniors and those already managing other health conditions.
This outbreak serves as a reminder to be cautious with pre-packaged items—especially those eaten cold—and to share safety updates with friends, neighbors, and loved ones.
Read next: Tomato recall linked to salmonella: What you need to know to stay safe
Have you ever gotten sick from a recalled food product? Do you have personal tips for staying safe with snacks and ready-made meals? We’d love to hear your stories and advice in the comments. By sharing, you might help someone else avoid a serious illness.
