Marie Callender recall: Linked to salmonella outbreak

ConAgra Foods Packaged Foods has issued a recall of Marie Callender 's Cheesy Chicken and Rice frozen meals after more than two dozen people were diagnosed with salmonella poisoning.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service said all of those frozen meals, regardless of when they were made, are subject to this recall. Consumers are urged to not eat the meals.

The USDA said the recall was issued after an investigation by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) connected a specific type of salmonella poisoning to illnesses of 29 people in 14 states. The last illness reported was May 22, the USDA said.

The Marie Callender's meal was a common thread for eight of those sickened, according to the USDA, but the investigation involving a collection of state and federal agencies is continuing. Salmonella can cause a variety of gastrointestinal problems, but is particularly dangerous to young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.

The recalled product comes in 13-ounce packages labeled: "Marie Callender's Cheesy Chicken & Rice White Meat Chicken and Broccoli over Rice Topped with Rich Cheddar Sauce."

Questions about the recall should be directed to ConAgra Foods at 1-866-484-9610.