Fact Check: "Listeria strain linked to outbreak detected in chicken fettucine during routine inspection."
What We Know
The claim that a strain of Listeria linked to an outbreak was detected in chicken fettuccine during a routine inspection is substantiated by recent announcements from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). On June 17, 2025, FSIS reported that FreshRealm establishments in California, Georgia, and Indiana were recalling chicken fettuccine alfredo products due to potential contamination with an outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) (FreshRealm Recalls Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Products).
The outbreak, which has affected 17 individuals across 13 states, has resulted in three reported deaths and one fetal loss (Recalls & Public Health Alerts). Notably, the same strain of Lm was isolated from a sample of chicken fettuccine alfredo collected during a routine inspection by FSIS in March 2025. This sample was destroyed and did not enter commerce, indicating that the contamination was identified before reaching consumers (FreshRealm Recalls Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Products).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim is robust, as it comes directly from official government sources, specifically the FSIS, which is responsible for food safety in the United States. The FSIS's announcement details the timeline of the outbreak, the number of affected individuals, and the specific products involved in the recall, which adds credibility to the information presented (FreshRealm Recalls Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Products).
Moreover, the FSIS's proactive measures, including the destruction of contaminated products and ongoing investigations, demonstrate a commitment to public health and safety. The agency's findings are corroborated by multiple news outlets, including ABC News and 6abc Philadelphia, which reported on the outbreak and its implications for consumers.
However, it is essential to recognize that while the FSIS is a reliable source, the ongoing nature of the investigation means that further details about the source of contamination are still being sought. As of now, the specific ingredient responsible for the outbreak has not been identified, which leaves some uncertainty about the broader implications for food safety (FreshRealm Recalls Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Products).
Conclusion
The claim that a strain of Listeria linked to an outbreak was detected in chicken fettuccine during a routine inspection is True. The evidence from the FSIS and corroborating news reports confirms that the outbreak strain was indeed found in chicken fettuccine alfredo products, leading to a nationwide recall and highlighting significant public health concerns.
