Possible Listeria Contamination Triggers Recall
Kroger has issued a widespread recall of two of its popular deli pasta salads, the Basil Pesto Bowtie Salad and the Smoked Mozzarella Penne Salad, due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections. The recall applies to products sold across Kroger’s network of grocery chains, including Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Smith’s, and other affiliated brands. The company said the recall was initiated “out of an abundance of caution” after routine testing by a supplier indicated the potential presence of the harmful bacteria.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Listeria infection poses a particular risk to pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system, leading to meningitis or even death. No illnesses have been reported so far in connection with the recalled salads, according to Kroger’s statement.
What Consumers Should Do
Customers who purchased either product should not eat them. Instead, they are advised to dispose of the items immediately or return them to their local Kroger store or any affiliated chain location for a full refund.
Consumers can check product labels for the following:
Products: Basil Pesto Bowtie Salad and Smoked Mozzarella Penne Salad
Retailers: Kroger, Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Smith’s, and other Kroger family stores
Action: Return for refund or safely discard
Kroger has notified all stores to remove the affected items from shelves and is working closely with federal food safety officials to ensure no further contaminated products remain in circulation.
Broader Food Safety Context
This recall is the latest in a series of deli product safety alerts affecting major U.S. retailers in 2025, as federal regulators have ramped up scrutiny of prepared food items. Listeria outbreaks linked to ready-to-eat salads and meats have become an increasing concern due to the bacteria’s resilience in cold environments such as deli counters. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are continuing to monitor the situation and advise consumers to stay alert for additional recall updates.
