OUTBREAK: Frozen Milkshakes Recalled After Deaths And Illness Reported

FDA recalls frozen shakes after deadly listeria outbreak claims 11 lives and sickens 38.

Quick Takes

Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental shakes recalled due to listeria contamination
11 deaths and 38 illnesses reported, primarily in nursing homes and long-term care facilities
Outbreak affects 21 states, with cases dating back to 2018
High-risk groups include elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems
FDA urges immediate disposal of affected products and medical attention for those experiencing symptoms

Deadly Outbreak Prompts Nationwide Recall

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an urgent recall of Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental shakes following a deadly listeria outbreak. The contamination has resulted in 11 deaths and 38 illnesses, primarily affecting vulnerable populations in nursing homes and long-term care facilities across 21 states.

The FDA became aware of the outbreak in late November, with investigations revealing that the affected facilities had received the contaminated shakes. The incident has raised serious concerns about food safety protocols in healthcare settings, particularly those serving high-risk individuals.

Outbreak Details and Affected Products

The listeria outbreak has been linked to frozen supplemental shakes manufactured by Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. at their Fort Wayne, Indiana facility. These products were distributed primarily to long-term care facilities and hospitals and were not available for retail sale. The FDA has identified cases dating back to 2018, with a significant spike in infections occurring in 2024 and 2025.

The recall affects all Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental shakes, which are often used to provide additional nutrition to patients in healthcare settings. Lyons Magnus LLC, the company responsible for distribution, has ceased purchasing from the affected facility and is working to remove all impacted products from circulation.

Health Risks and Symptoms

Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria responsible for this outbreak, can cause severe illness, particularly in high-risk groups such as older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeria infection include fever, muscle aches, nausea, tiredness, vomiting, and diarrhea.

According to the USDA, “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.”

The FDA strongly advises individuals who may have consumed these products and are experiencing symptoms to seek immediate medical attention. Healthcare providers should be informed about potential exposure to the contaminated shakes to ensure appropriate treatment.

FDA Response and Consumer Advice

The FDA, in collaboration with the CDC, is conducting a thorough investigation into the outbreak. Traceback efforts have confirmed that the affected facilities received the contaminated shakes, with 89% of the ill individuals having resided in long-term care facilities or been hospitalized prior to falling ill.

According to FDA officials, “Of the 38 people for whom information is available, 34 (89%) reported living in long-term care facilities or were hospitalized prior to becoming sick. Records reviewed from facilities indicated nutritional shakes were available to residents.”

Consumers and healthcare facilities are urged to check their freezers for any recalled products and dispose of them immediately. For further information or inquiries, individuals can contact Lyons Magnus at [email protected]. The company has emphasized its commitment to consumer safety and is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation.