- Three individuals lost their lives due to Listeria infection stemming from milkshakes served at Frugals restaurant.
- Frugals restaurant has stated that they are thoroughly cleaning all of their machines.
- Annually, Listeria infection claims the lives of approximately 260 people.
Tragically, three lives have been lost and three individuals have been hospitalized due to the presence of Listeria bacteria in milkshakes sold at a burger shop located in Tacoma, Washington.
According to the Washington State Department of Health, the bacteria was discovered in the ice cream machines at a Frugals restaurant. The machines were not adequately cleaned by the staff. Thankfully, no other location was affected.
These cases occurred between February 27 and July 22, and all the affected individuals had weakened immune systems, as stated by the department.
Although the restaurant ceased using the machines earlier this month, it is important to note that symptoms of Listeria infection can manifest up to 70 days after initial exposure, as per the agency’s findings.
Frugals, in a heartfelt statement posted on Facebook, announced the immediate suspension of milkshake sales at their Tacoma store and all other locations utilizing milkshake machines. The company also outlined its plan to test machines at other stores for Listeria contamination and ensure proper sanitization.
The statement expressed deep regret and revealed the company’s profound sorrow for any harm that may have resulted from their actions.
Insider reached out to Frugals for comment, but there has been no immediate response.
Listeria bacteria can cause a condition known as listeriosis, commonly referred to as Listeria infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Although this infection may be harmless for most individuals, it poses a significant risk to those with weakened immune systems, individuals over 65 years of age, pregnant individuals, and their newborns. Approximately 260 people lose their lives each year due to this infection. Between 1998 and 2021, there were 58,717 instances of listeria disease outbreaks, resulting in nearly 2,000 deaths.
Common symptoms experienced by most individuals include fever, flu-like symptoms, seizures, headaches, muscle fatigue, loss of balance, a stiff neck, and confusion. In pregnant individuals, symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue.
In February, Fresh Ideation Food Group LLC, based in Baltimore, issued a recall of over 400 food products contaminated with Listeria. Additionally, in 2022, two individuals lost their lives after being infected with Listeria found in Dole packaged salads.
