A listeria outbreak linked to ready-to-eat meat and poultry products has resulted in 11 infections across California, Illinois, New York, and New Jersey, including one infant death in California.

The recalled products include all items labeled with 'Yu Shang' featuring establishment numbers 'P46684' and 'EST. M46684', produced before late October 2024.

Contamination was discovered during routine testing by the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service on October 21, leading to an initial recall on November 9 and an expanded recall on November 21.

Of the 11 people infected, nine have been hospitalized, with laboratory findings confirming the link to Yu Shang Food products.

Seven of the infected individuals reported purchasing products from markets where Yu Shang Food items were sold, and two specifically consumed Yu Shang Food chicken.

The CDC established a genetic link among the listeria cases, indicating they originated from the same food source, reinforcing the seriousness of the outbreak.

Consumers are advised to return or dispose of the recalled products and to clean any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with them.

Health authorities recommend monitoring for symptoms and seeking medical attention if any recalled products have been consumed, as listeria infections are treatable with antibiotics when detected early.

Listeria is particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and newborns, causing severe illness and is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the U.S.

The CDC suspects the outbreak may be underreported, as many individuals may not have been tested for listeria, which can take 3 to 4 weeks for confirmation.

Health authorities did not disclose specific details about the deceased infant, including their location in California.

This outbreak follows a separate listeria outbreak linked to Boar's Head deli meats, which resulted in 10 deaths and numerous illnesses during the summer of 2024.