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.