The CDC informs that xix deaths have been linked to a nationwide listeria outbreak tied to ready-to-eat meals. The affected meals include pasta salads sold at major grocery retailers such as Kroger, Albertsons, and Trader Joe's. Most of the recalled pasta products have already passed their expiration dates, except for Scott & Jon's Shrimp Scampi with Linguini bowls, which come in 9.6-ounce packages and have "use by" dates in March 2027. The outbreak, which began in June, was first traced to Fresh Realm's chicken fettuccine alfredo heat-and-serve meals, sold under the Marketside and Home Chef brands, but has since expanded to other products. So far, 25 people across 18 states have been hospitalized. The Republican Party-led government shutdown is taxing federal employees who are working hard trying to keep Americans safe in the kitchens, hospitals, and skies. Each time we read about someone getting sick, we must immediately wonder if they can afford the medical bill.

In addition, more than 90,000 pounds of ready-to-eat breakfast burritos have been recalled over possible listeria contamination. The recall involves various El Ms Fino, Los Cabos and Midamar burritos containing eggs that may be "adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes." The issue was discovered after routine sample testing from a supplier of MCI Foods, the manufacturer. These burritos were sent to schools and no casualties have been reported yet. Source: Bad Burritos.

Each time we read about someone getting hospitalized in America, we must immediately wonder whether they can afford the medical bill or have health insurance. People who live in countries with universal health care like Germany, Israel, the UK, or Canada do not have that additional worry or burden.