New York-based Gias Foods has issued a nationwide recall of two lots of its bettergoods brand Authentic Italian Lemon Alfredo Fettuccine, citing potential contamination with listeria monocytogenes, according to a notice posted by the Food and Drug Administration.
The frozen pasta, packaged in 22-ounce bags, was distributed to Walmart Inc. stores across the country. The affected products carry the UPC number 194346442706 and lot numbers L6079C or L6080C, with expiration dates of September 19 or September 20, 2027.
The recall was initiated on September 15 after routine sampling conducted by the Washington State Department of Agriculture and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services detected the presence of the bacteria. Gias Foods said no illnesses have been reported to date in connection with the product.
Listeriosis, the infection caused by listeria, typically manifests within two weeks of consuming contaminated food. Symptoms can include fever, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, seizures, and flu-like signs such as muscle aches and fatigue, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The infection is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Gias Foods has halted distribution of the pasta meals while an investigation continues. The company is urging consumers who purchased the product to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Customers with questions can contact the company at [email protected].
The recall adds to a growing list of food safety challenges facing major retailers. Walmart, the nation's largest grocer, has faced scrutiny over product safety before, including a recent $50 million settlement with the Justice Department over opioid dispensing claims. While that case involved pharmacy practices, it underscores the heightened regulatory attention on the company's supply chain and compliance.
Federal and state agencies have ramped up foodborne illness surveillance in recent years, with routine sampling programs like the ones that flagged this contamination playing a critical role in early detection. The FDA has not yet classified the recall, but such notices are typically followed by public health advisories if the risk escalates.
Consumers should check their freezers for the affected lot numbers and expiration dates. The recall applies only to the specific lots listed; other bettergoods products are not impacted. Gias Foods said it is cooperating fully with regulators and will provide updates as the investigation proceeds.
