The CDC issued a warning Friday about the outbreak, which sent ten people from Florida, Massachusetts and New York to hospital leading to the death of one person in Florida.
The company said the tele meat may have been the source of the explosion. Nine victims reported eating Italian-style meats such as salami, although the CDC did not identify a common meat or supplier as evidence.
The average age of the victims was 81 and most were women. Although many people with Listeria, 65 and over, have a weakened immune system and are less likely to become seriously ill, pregnant women are at higher risk of contracting the disease.
Listeria is especially dangerous for pregnant women. Infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth or life-threatening infection of the newborn.
Contamination symptoms usually begin one to four weeks after eating contaminated food, and include fever, muscle aches, headaches, confusion and loss of balance.
Previous Listeria bursts have been linked to hard-boiled eggs, mushrooms and soft cheeses.
CDC advises people at high risk of infection to avoid eating tele meat. The company also advises keeping the meat in the refrigerator to keep the surrounding surfaces clean, away from other foods.
An investigation into the explosion is ongoing.
