Urgent Alert: Walmart's Frozen Mac & Cheese Recalled Nationwide Over Serious Listeria Threat

Walmart customers nationwide are being urged to immediately check their freezers following an urgent recall of a popular frozen pasta meal. Readyset Foods has initiated a voluntary recall of its Marketside Ultimate Cheesy Macaroni due to the potential for Listeria monocytogenes contamination, a bacterium that can cause severe and sometimes fatal illness.

The affected product is the 32-ounce plastic tray of Marketside Ultimate Cheesy Macaroni, which was distributed to Walmart stores across the entire country.

Consumers should look for packages with the UPC 6-81131-81287 and specific "USE BY" dates ranging from 7/7/2024 through 7/14/2024. If you have purchased this product with these identifiers, it is crucial not to consume it.

Listeria monocytogenes can lead to a serious infection known as listeriosis.

Symptoms often include fever, severe muscle aches, headache, a stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and even convulsions. While healthy individuals may only experience short-term symptoms like high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, the risk is far greater for vulnerable populations.

Young children, the frail or elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to severe and potentially life-threatening infections.

Additionally, listeriosis poses a significant danger to pregnant women, as it can cause miscarriages and stillbirths, even if the mother experiences only mild, flu-like symptoms. It's important to note that symptoms can sometimes appear weeks after consuming contaminated food.

Readyset Foods, based in Chicago, Illinois, is working closely with authorities to ensure all affected products are removed from store shelves.

The recall was prompted by internal testing that detected the presence of Listeria, leading to swift action to protect public health.

If you have purchased the recalled Marketside Ultimate Cheesy Macaroni, do not eat it. Consumers are advised to either discard the product immediately or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

For any questions or concerns regarding this recall, customers can contact Readyset Foods customer service directly at 1-888-496-0091.

This recall underscores the importance of food safety and vigilance. Consumers are encouraged to remain informed about product recalls and always err on the side of caution when a potential health risk is identified.