SPRINGDALE, ARK. – Tyson Foods, Inc. initiated a recall of approximately 8.5 million lbs of ready-to-eat chicken products on July 3 due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The affected products were manufactured at the company’s Dexter, Mo., plant between Dec. 26, 2020, and April 13, 2021.

The recall includes Tyson branded frozen, fully cooked products as well as private label brands manufactured at the plant. Distribution was nationwide and to Puerto Rico. Customers receiving the recalled products include retailers, foodservice operators and institutions.

Labels and products that are subject to recall can be found here. Some of the products include pulled chicken breasts, chicken strips and chicken pizza. They were sold under the brand names Tyson, Jet Pizza and Casey’s General Store. 

“We’re committed to providing safe, healthy food that people rely on every day,” said Scott Brooks, senior vice president, food safety and quality assurance of Tyson Foods. “We are taking this precautionary step out of an abundance of caution and in keeping with our commitment to safety.” 

The US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notified it on June 9 of two people ill with listeriosis. Following an investigation, the agency determined there was evidence linking the illnesses to products produced at the Tyson Foods plant.

As of July 3, the CDC said it had identified three illnesses and one death associated with the recall. Tyson Foods said there was no conclusive evidence the recalled products were contaminated at the time of shipment.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. P-7089” on the product bag or inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped nationwide to retailers and institutions, including hospitals, nursing facilities, restaurants, schools and Department of Defense locations.