Lidl Recalls Gelato Over Listeria Found in Lab Samples

Ice cream is being pulled from shelves in nine states because it might be tainted with a deadly germ. Lidl US has issued an urgent recall for one specific batch of Gelatelli Coffee & Vanilla Gelato with Coffee Sauce & Cookie Pieces. Routine quality testing found Listeria monocytogenes on a lab sample. This bacteria causes listeriosis, a dangerous food-borne illness that can be fatal.

The problem is limited to 16-ounce lots of the gelato. These containers carry a best-by date of March 26, 2028 and feature universal product code 40564897 along with lot number 085261. The contaminated product hit Lidl retail stores between July 19, 2026 and October 15, 2026. That distribution spanned Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, plus Washington, DC.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall so far. Lidl US told customers to throw the gelato away immediately or bring it back for a refund. The company stated, 'The health and safety of our customers is our top priority.' They added that their Quality Assurance Department works constantly to ensure products meet high standards. They expect the same quality when feeding their own families.

Listeria thrives in moist environments like soil and water. It lives in decaying vegetation and animals too. This pathogen can survive refrigeration and other food preservation measures. While many foods can harbor it, risks are often found in unpasteurized milk or soft cheeses. Ready-to-eat foods such as pre-packed sandwiches also carry the threat. Cooked shellfish, cured meats, fish like sushi, and pre-cut fruit are additional dangers.

Most of the 1,250 Americans infected with listeria each year recover on their own. However, symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, and confusion. Patients might suffer from loss of balance or convulsions sometimes preceded by diarrhea. Pregnant women face severe risks including miscarriages and stillbirths. About 250 Americans die of the infection every year if it spreads beyond the gut to affect the central nervous system.