Gias Foods, Inc. has issued a recall for two specific batches of its frozen pasta, Bettergoods Authentic Italian Lemon Alfredo Fettuccine, available at Walmart locations across the United States, due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
The FDA announced the recall on September 15, 2026. The issue was identified through routine sampling programs conducted by the agriculture departments in Washington and Florida, which revealed that the finished product might be contaminated with the bacteria. As of now, there have been no illness reports linked to the consumption of this product.
The affected product is a 22-ounce (approximately 624 grams) frozen pasta packaged in a yellow plastic container, bearing UPC code #194346442706. The recalled batches are labeled #L6079C and #L6080C, with expiration dates of 09/19/2027 and 09/20/2027, respectively, printed on the back of the packaging.
New York-based Gias Foods has halted the distribution of this product while the FDA and the company conduct an investigation into the source of the potential contamination. Consumers who have purchased these batches are advised to return them to the store for a full refund.
Listeria monocytogenes is particularly concerning because, unlike many other pathogens, it can survive and even grow in refrigerated conditions. According to the FDA, "it can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems."
Less severe symptoms of the disease include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, typically lasting between one to three days. The more invasive form, however, can lead to headache, neck stiffness, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.
The CDC warns that "invasive listeriosis is a potentially deadly event, especially for newborns, adults over 65, and those with weakened immune systems."
Pregnant women are another high-risk group: although their symptoms may be mild or unnoticed, the infection can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or severe infection in the newborn.
Earlier this September, Walmart faced another frozen product recall when Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend was pulled from shelves in 16 states due to potential E. coli contamination.
The recalled pasta is part of Walmart's private-label brand, bettergoods, launched in April 2024. This brand features over 300 products across categories such as frozen foods, dairy, snacks, and beverages, most priced under $5.
A listeria outbreak in the United States in 2022 resulted in one death and over twenty hospitalizations, highlighting the potential severity of this bacteria when not addressed promptly.
Understanding Listeria Contamination in Food Products
What is Listeria monocytogenes?
Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection typically caused by eating contaminated food. It's especially dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
How can I identify the recalled pasta?
The recalled pasta is the Bettergoods Authentic Italian Lemon Alfredo Fettuccine, packaged in a yellow plastic container with UPC code #194346442706. The affected batch numbers are #L6079C and #L6080C, with expiration dates 09/19/2027 and 09/20/2027.
What should I do if I have the recalled product?
If you have purchased the recalled pasta, you should return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Avoid consuming the product to prevent potential health risks.