Lidl Ice Cream Recall Upgraded to Highest Risk Level for Listeria Contamination

A recall for Lidl US's Gelatelli Coffee & Vanilla Gelato has been upgraded to a Class I, the most serious warning issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This bacteria can cause listeriosis, a severe infection with potentially life-threatening complications.

The recall, initially voluntary, was intensified after further testing confirmed the presence of listeria in the product. A Class I recall signifies a reasonable probability that consuming the affected product could lead to serious adverse health outcomes or death.

As of the latest update, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall. However, Lidl US has urged customers who purchased the affected gelato to immediately discard it or return it to their nearest store for a full refund.

The recall encompasses approximately 1,122 units of Gelatelli Coffee & Vanilla Gelato with Coffee Sauce and Cookie Pieces. These products were distributed to all Lidl US retail stores located in Washington D.C. and nine states: Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Virginia. The distribution period for these units was between July 19 and October 15, 2026.

The affected product is packaged in 16-fluid ounce (1 pint) containers, identifiable by UPC 4 0564897 22458 and lot number 085261. All containers have a best-by date of March 26, 2028.

Listeria monocytogenes is described by the FDA as a resilient bacterium that can survive in cold environments and does not multiply when frozen, but it is not killed by freezing. Listeriosis symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, confusion, and convulsions, and can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth in pregnant women. Approximately 250 Americans die from listeriosis annually, often when the infection spreads to the central nervous system.

Lidl US stated that the health and safety of its customers is their top priority and that their Quality Assurance Department continually works to ensure products meet high standards.