What was recalled
If you have been stocking up on convenient, ready-to-eat meals from your local grocery store recently, it is important to pause and check the labels of any soups you may have purchased. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall notice for specific products under the brand names CUISINE and KETTLE. These items are part of their "Marketside" line, which is designed to offer consumers quick, restaurant-quality meals that require minimal preparation time. The specific products affected by this recall include the Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit, as well as the Marketside Tomato Bisque with Cheese Croutons & White Cheddar Cheese. Both varieties are labeled as "Ready to Heat," meaning they are intended to be warmed up directly in their packaging or transferred to a microwave-safe bowl for quick consumption.
To identify if your item is part of this recall, you need to look closely at the packaging details. The affected units have a net weight of 14 ounces (which converts to approximately 397 grams). A critical distinguishing feature on the label is the Universal Product Code (UPC), which for these recalled items is 1 94346474004. Additionally, the packaging explicitly states that the product "Must Keep Refrigerated," indicating that it is a perishable item rather than a shelf-stable one. The expiration date on the affected packages is marked as August 22, 2026 (listed as Best By/Use By: 8/22/2026). It is vital to check this date alongside the UPC, as products with different expiration dates or barcodes may not be included in this specific recall action.
Understanding where and when these products were sold helps narrow down who might be affected. The FDA report indicates that the recalled items were distributed across several states, specifically Illinois (IL), Nevada (NV), New Mexico (NM), California (CA), Oklahoma (OK), Texas (TX), Pennsylvania (PA), Ohio (OH), North Carolina (NC), New York (NY), Georgia (GA), and Arkansas (AR). The recall was officially announced on August 11, 2026. While the distribution pattern lists these states, the notice also references Maryland (MD) in its data structure, so consumers in that region should also exercise caution if they have purchased these items recently.
The reason for this recall is serious and requires immediate attention. The FDA's testing revealed a presumptive positive test result for Listeria monocytogenes within the product. Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that spreads through contaminated food. Because the remedy for this specific recall has not been explicitly stated in the initial FDA facts, the safest course of action is to assume the entire batch is compromised. This is not a minor labeling error or a cosmetic defect; it is a biological hazard that can lead to severe health complications. Therefore, identifying exactly what you have and taking appropriate steps immediately is crucial for your safety.
The hazard, explained
When the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issues a recall for Listeria monocytogenes, it is addressing a specific and serious biological threat that operates differently than many other foodborne illnesses. In this instance, the FDA identified a presumptive positive test result for this bacterium in CUISINE, KETTLE Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit. To understand why this matters, we need to look at what Listeria actually is and how it behaves inside refrigerated environments.
Unlike many common bacteria that are killed by cold temperatures or destroyed when food is properly cooked, Listeria monocytogenes is unique in its ability to survive and even multiply in the refrigerator. This process is known as psychrotrophic growth. While most people keep their refrigerators set to 40°F (4°C) to preserve freshness and inhibit bacterial growth, Listeria does not share this limitation. It can continue to replicate slowly at these standard household temperatures. This means that if a product was contaminated during manufacturing or packaging, the levels of bacteria could increase significantly over the weeks it sits on your shelf, even if the "Best By" date has not yet passed.
The danger lies in how this bacterium interacts with the human body. Once ingested, Listeria can cross the intestinal barrier and enter the bloodstream, a condition known as bacteremia. From there, it has a particular affinity for the central nervous system. It does not typically cause the immediate, violent stomach cramps associated with Salmonella or E. coli in healthy adults. Instead, it often presents with more subtle, flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and sometimes gastrointestinal issues like nausea or diarrhea. However, because it can invade the nervous system, it may lead to more severe complications including meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) or encephalitis.
This specific pathogen is particularly insidious because it does not usually alter the taste, smell, or appearance of the food. The Marketside Tomato Bisque with Cheese Croutons & White Cheddar Soup Kit looked, smelled, and tasted exactly as intended. You cannot rely on your senses to detect Listeria contamination. The "presumptive positive" finding by the FDA indicates that laboratory testing detected genetic material consistent with the bacteria, confirming its presence even if no human illnesses have been reported yet. This silent nature is why regulatory agencies treat any confirmation of Listeria in ready-to-eat foods as a critical failure of safety protocols, necessitating an immediate Class II recall to prevent potential harm before symptoms even appear.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about food safety, not everyone faces the same level of danger from a single contaminated product. While anyone who eats the affected Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit could potentially become ill, the severity of the consequences varies significantly based on individual health factors and age. Understanding who is most vulnerable helps us prioritize why this recall matters so much, even if the overall risk to the general population might seem low.
The primary concern here is Listeria monocytogenes, a type of bacteria that behaves differently than many other foodborne pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli. Unlike some bacteria that are destroyed by cooking at high temperatures, Listeria can survive and even grow in cold environments. This makes refrigerated items, like the soups in question, particularly tricky if contamination occurred after processing. For most healthy adults, the immune system is quite effective at handling small amounts of Listeria. You might experience mild symptoms, such as a slight fever or upset stomach, or you might not notice anything at all. However, for certain groups, this bacterium can be far more serious.
Pregnant women are among the most critical group to protect in these situations. While pregnant individuals themselves may only suffer from flu-like symptoms, Listeria has a unique ability to cross the placental barrier. This means it can infect the unborn baby, leading to severe complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn. Because the stakes are so high for fetal health, public health agencies treat any presumptive positive test for Listeria in food with extreme urgency, regardless of how mild the symptoms might be for the mother.
Elderly adults and individuals with weakened immune systems also face heightened risks. As we age, our immune defenses naturally decline, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. Similarly, people undergoing chemotherapy, those living with HIV/AIDS, or individuals taking medications that suppress the immune system (such as after an organ transplant) have reduced ability to contain the bacteria. In these populations, Listeria can move from the intestines into the bloodstream and even to the central nervous system, causing meningitis or sepsis. These conditions are medical emergencies that require immediate hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics.
It is also important to note that young children, while less commonly affected by severe Listeriosis than the groups above, still have developing immune systems that may not be as robust as those of healthy adults. Therefore, caution is advised for all households with infants or young toddlers. The general public should remember that susceptibility is not just about age; it is about the strength of your body’s natural defenses. If you fall into any of the higher-risk categories mentioned, or if you are caring for someone who does, treating this recall with utmost seriousness is the safest course of action.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action, it is essential to confirm that the product in your refrigerator or pantry matches the specific batch identified in this recall. Because "Marketside" is a common brand name and tomato bisque is a popular soup variety, it is easy to assume all similar-looking items are affected when they might not be. This particular recall applies only to products manufactured under the CUISINE, KETTLE brand line. If your package bears a different manufacturer logo or brand name, it is not part of this specific safety alert.
To verify if you have the recalled item, please check your packaging carefully for the following details. The product is specifically Marketside Tomato Bisque with Cheese Croutons & White Cheddar Cheese. It is sold as a "Ready to Heat" kit. Look closely at the net weight information on the front or side of the package; the recalled units are exactly 14 OZ (397g). Packages of different weights, such as 12 oz or 16 oz versions, are not included in this recall.
The most reliable way to identify your product is by scanning the barcode. The recalled items carry the Universal Product Code (UPC) 1 94346474004. If you have multiple packages and are unsure which one is affected, check this number first. Additionally, look for storage instructions on the label. This product must be kept refrigerated until use. If your package was stored in the freezer or at room temperature, it may not be the specific item under recall, though you should still verify the other details.
Please also check the date printed on the package. The "Best By" or "Use By" date for the recalled items is 8/22/2026. If your package has a different expiration date, it is likely not part of this specific recall lot. Note that while the recall was announced on August 11, 2026, the product itself was distributed to stores in Illinois, Nevada, New Mexico, California, Oklahoma, Texas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, New York, Georgia, and Arkansas. If you purchased the item outside of these states, it is less likely to be affected, though cross-state distribution can sometimes occur. Keep your package intact until you have confirmed its identity.
- Brand: CUISINE, KETTLE
- Product Name: Marketside Tomato Bisque with Cheese Croutons & White Cheddar Cheese
- Format: Ready to Heat Soup Kit
- Net Weight: 14 OZ (397g)
- UPC Code: 1 94346474004
- Best By Date: 8/22/2026
- Storage Requirement: Must Keep Refrigerated
If your package matches all of the above criteria, you have the recalled item. Do not consume it under any circumstances. Even if the soup looks and smells normal, the presence of Listeria monocytogenes cannot be detected by sight or smell. Please proceed to the next steps for disposal or refund information.
What to do — step by step
If you have purchased the CUISINE, KETTLE Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit, specifically the variety labeled "Tomato Bisque with Cheese Croutons & White Cheddar Cheese" in the 14-ounce (397g) packaging, the first and most critical step is to stop consuming it immediately. Although the specific remediation instructions from the Food and Drug Administration for this particular recall event on August 11, 2026, are not explicitly detailed in the public notice, standard safety protocols for products testing positive for Listeria monocytogenes dictate that you must treat the item as unsafe. Do not taste the soup to check if it is spoiled, as Listeria does not necessarily alter the smell, taste, or appearance of food. Even if the product is within its "Best By" date of August 22, 2026, the potential for bacterial contamination makes it hazardous regardless of freshness.
Next, carefully inspect your refrigerator. The recalled item is clearly marked with the UPC code 1 94346474004 and includes a "Must Keep Refrigerated" label. Locate this specific kit in your pantry or fridge. Once identified, do not attempt to cook it to kill the bacteria, as heat treatment in a home kitchen cannot be guaranteed to eliminate all risks associated with Listeria monocytogenes in this context. Instead, you need to isolate the product from your household’s food supply. Place the unopened package into a sealed plastic bag or a trash bin with a lid to prevent any potential cross-contamination of other foods, surfaces, or utensils in your home.
Regarding disposal or return, since the official remedy is not stated, you should contact the retailer where you made the purchase. If you bought the soup from a grocery store that carries the CUISINE, KETTLE brand, bring the product back with your receipt if possible. Explain that it is part of an FDA recall for Listeria monocytogenes. Many retailers will offer a full refund or exchange even without a receipt for recalled food items, as they have their own protocols for handling unsafe goods. If you cannot return it, dispose of it in your regular trash in a way that prevents animals or others from accessing it. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the package.
Finally, monitor your health and the health of anyone else who may have consumed this soup. Listeria monocytogenes is a serious pathogen that can cause listeriosis, a severe infection. If you or any family members experience symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, or diarrhea within a few weeks of consumption, contact your healthcare provider. Be sure to mention that you may have eaten the recalled Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit. While this step is not part of the product remediation, it is a vital part of protecting your well-being after encountering a food safety hazard.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
When you discover that a food product is part of an official recall, your immediate instinct might be to check the fine print for instructions on how to get your money back or receive a replacement item. It is completely natural to want to resolve the situation quickly and fairly. However, in this specific case involving the CUISINE, KETTLE Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit, the official recall documentation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not provide explicit details regarding a formal remedy. This means that standard procedures for refunds, repairs, or replacements are not outlined in the public recall notice. While this might feel like an incomplete answer, it is important to understand why this happens and what your practical options likely are.
First, it is helpful to clarify what we mean by "remedy" in the context of a food recall. Unlike a defective toaster that might be repaired or a piece of clothing that can be replaced with a new size, a recalled food item generally cannot be "fixed." The primary goal of the manufacturer or distributor in this scenario is to remove the product from the market entirely to prevent consumption. Therefore, the "remedy" for the consumer is typically the return of your purchase price. Even though the FDA recall facts do not list a specific contact number, email address, or website for processing these refunds, the responsibility usually falls on the retailer where you bought the item or the brand’s customer service department.
You should start by checking your receipt or bank statement to identify where you purchased the Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit. Because this product was distributed across multiple states including Illinois, Nevada, New Mexico, California, Oklahoma, Texas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, New York, Georgia, and Arkansas, local grocery stores or online retailers are your best first point of contact. Most reputable retailers have policies in place to handle recalled items gracefully. They will typically accept the unopened (or even opened, depending on store policy) product back and issue a full refund to your original payment method. This is often the fastest and most straightforward path because you do not need to wait for instructions from the manufacturer.
If you cannot locate your receipt or if the retailer is unable to help, you may try to contact CUISINE, KETTLE directly. However, please note that the current recall facts do not provide their specific customer service contact information. In such cases, you can often find general customer support details on the product packaging itself, the brand’s official website, or by searching for the manufacturer’s name in a business directory. Be cautious of any third-party websites claiming to offer refunds for this recall; always verify that you are dealing with an authorized representative of the retailer or the brand.
It is also worth noting that because the hazard involves Listeria monocytogenes, the safety concern outweighs any financial inconvenience. Do not hesitate to return the product even if it feels like a hassle. Your health and the health of your family are far more valuable than the cost of a soup kit. If you have already consumed the product and experience any symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, or gastrointestinal issues, please consult a healthcare provider immediately rather than focusing on the refund process at that moment.
In summary, while the official record does not dictate a specific refund mechanism, your right to a refund remains intact under standard consumer protection practices. Contact the store where you made the purchase first. If they are unable to assist, then attempt to reach out to the brand’s general customer service channels. Keep your receipt handy, and do not feel pressured to keep the product if you have doubts about its safety. The absence of detailed remedy instructions in the recall notice does not mean you are without recourse; it simply means you must rely on standard retail return policies rather than a specialized manufacturer-led refund program.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a food recall involves Listeria monocytogenes, the stakes are significantly higher than with many other common foodborne bacteria. This is not a situation where ignoring the warning might simply result in a mild stomachache that passes by dinner time. Listeria is insidious because it thrives in cold environments. Unlike Salmonella or E. coli, which are often killed by cooking or do not survive well in refrigerated conditions, Listeria can continue to grow even inside your refrigerator at standard temperatures. If you choose to keep this Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit past the recall date, or if you ignore the notice entirely and consume it regardless of its age, you are essentially providing the perfect breeding ground for this pathogen to multiply to dangerous levels.
The primary danger of Listeria monocytogenes is its ability to cause listeriosis, a serious infection that can lead to severe health complications. For healthy adults, the symptoms may initially seem like a mild flu: fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress such as nausea or diarrhea. However, this initial stage can be deceptive. The bacteria have a unique ability to invade the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body, including the central nervous system. If left untreated because the source was ignored or misidentified, the infection can progress to meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) or septicemia (blood poisoning). These are life-threatening conditions that require immediate hospitalization, intensive care, and prolonged antibiotic treatment.
The consequences become even more severe for specific populations. If you are pregnant, Listeria infection can have devastating outcomes. Pregnant individuals may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms themselves, but the bacteria can cross the placenta and infect the fetus. This can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn. For older adults, particularly those over 65, and for anyone with a weakened immune system due to conditions like cancer, diabetes, or kidney disease, the risk of invasive listeriosis is markedly higher. In these cases, the body’s natural defenses are insufficient to contain the bacteria once it has entered the bloodstream, leading to high mortality rates if the infection is not caught early.
Furthermore, ignoring a recall creates a broader public health risk. By consuming potentially contaminated product, you not only endanger yourself but also contribute to the spread of the pathogen within your household. Listeria can be transmitted through close contact with an infected individual who has not been properly treated or isolated. Therefore, the decision to discard this product is not just a matter of personal convenience; it is a critical step in preventing a serious, potentially fatal disease from taking hold. The uncertainty of whether any given container contains harmful bacteria means there is no safe way to "test it at home" or cook it to ensure safety if the contamination is widespread. The only reliable way to avoid these dire health outcomes is to treat the recall notice as an immediate instruction to remove and dispose of the product.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall highlights a serious concern regarding Listeria monocytogenes in refrigerated soups, the incident serves as a valuable reminder of why proper food handling and vigilance are critical for everyone. Listeria is unique among common foodborne pathogens because it can grow even at refrigerator temperatures. This means that simply keeping your food cold does not automatically make it safe if it has been contaminated during processing or if it has been stored for too long. To protect yourself and your family from similar risks in the future, you must treat all ready-to-eat refrigerated foods with the same caution as raw meats.
First, let’s talk about temperature control. Your refrigerator should be set at 40°F (4°C) or below, and your freezer at 0°F (-18°C). Use an appliance thermometer to verify this, as digital displays on fridges can often be inaccurate. Because Listeria thrives in cold environments, it is essential not to store ready-to-eat foods for extended periods. Always adhere strictly to "Use By" or "Best By" dates, and consider freezing items you do not plan to eat within a few days of purchase. If you are unsure about the age of a pre-packaged meal, it is always safer to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Cross-contamination is another major risk factor in home kitchens. Even if your refrigerator is clean, bacteria can spread from raw foods to ready-to-eat items. Always store raw meats, poultry, and seafood on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator in sealed containers or trays to prevent their juices from dripping onto other foods. Use separate cutting boards for raw proteins and fresh produce, and wash all utensils, countertops, and hands thoroughly with hot, soapy water after handling raw ingredients. This simple practice significantly reduces the chance of introducing harmful bacteria into foods that will not be cooked again.
Finally, stay informed about food safety recalls. Sign up for alerts from the FDA’s Food Safety website or download their official app to receive real-time notifications about recalls in your area. Regularly check your pantry and refrigerator for products linked to ongoing recalls, especially those involving high-risk items like deli meats, soft cheeses, and ready-to-eat soups. By combining proactive monitoring with strict hygiene practices, you can enjoy the convenience of packaged foods while minimizing health risks.
- Keep your refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).
- Freeze ready-to-eat meals if you cannot consume them before the expiration date.
- Store raw meats on the bottom shelf to prevent juice leakage.
- Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw foods.
- Register for FDA recall alerts to stay updated on safety issues.