USDA Issues Public Health Alert for Daisy Brand Headcheese Due to Listeria Contamination in Illinois
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for Daisy Brand headcheese products potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. These ready-to-eat pork deli meat products were produced on January 20, 2026, and distributed to retail delis in Illinois and Indiana. The alert follows an investigation into a localized outbreak of listeriosis in Illinois, where three individuals have fallen ill. The FSIS, in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Public Health, is leading the investigation. Although a recall was not requested due to the products no longer being available for purchase, consumers are advised to discard or return any purchased items. The FSIS has confirmed that an unopened sample of the product tested positive for Listeria, and further testing is underway to determine if it matches the outbreak strain.