The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating illnesses in a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes.
On November 25, 2024, FDA was notified about an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes in the United States, with many ill people residing in long-term care facilities (LTCF) prior to illness onset. FDA’s traceback investigation identified that each of the LTCF who supplied invoice information for review from 2024 to present received a frozen supplemental shake of either Lyons ReadyCare or Sysco Imperial brand. As part of this investigation, FDA collected environmental samples and found the outbreak strain of Listeria.
According to CDC, this outbreak includes cases dating back to 2018, with 20 cases across 2024 and 2025, and is currently ongoing. Epidemiologic evidence in previous investigations were unable to identify a source of the outbreak. As of February 21, 2025, a total of 38 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported from 21 states. Of the 38 people for whom information is available, 37 people have been hospitalized. Eleven deaths have been reported. 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.
FDA has been informed that certain Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes are being voluntarily recalled. FDA is working with the recalling firms. FDA’s investigation is ongoing, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
Listeria Symptoms
Listeriosis symptoms usually start within two weeks after eating food contaminated with Listeria but may start as early as the same day or as late as 10 weeks after. Mild symptoms may include a fever, muscle aches, nausea, tiredness, vomiting, and diarrhea. If the more severe form of listeriosis develops, symptoms may include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.
Listeria
According to the CDC, Listeria are bacteria (germs) that can contaminate many foods and sicken people when they eat those foods. Listeria infection is rare, but serious: the CDC estimates that each year in the United States, 1,600 people are infected with Listeria and 260 people die from the infection. Listeria infection is usually diagnosed when a laboratory test grows Listeria from a sample of an ill person’s body fluid or tissue.
People with an invasive illness are treated with antibiotics. Most people recover from an intestinal illness without antibiotic treatment; antibiotics are needed only for patients who are very ill or at risk of becoming very ill. People with diarrhea should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
If you or a loved one may have acquired Listeria while a resident of a nursing home in the United States, you should promptly find a nursing home claim lawyer who may investigate your nursing home Listeria claim for you and represent you or your loved one in a nursing home Listeria case, if appropriate.
Click here to visit our website or call us toll-free in the United States at 800-295-3959 to find nursing home Listeria attorneys in your state who may assist you.
Turn to us when you don’t know where to turn.