The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has assigned its highest risk classification to a recall of Lidl’s Gelatelli Coffee & Vanilla Gelato after testing detected Listeria monocytogenes in the product. The recall covers 1,122 units distributed across nine states and Washington, D.C.
The decision, issued November 3, follows a voluntary recall initiated by Lidl US Trading on October 16. The affected gelato was distributed between July 19 and October 15, and federal records indicate that the recall remains ongoing.
FDA Identifies Serious Health Risk in Recalled Gelato
According to the FDA’s enforcement report, the recall involves Gelatelli Naturally Flavored Coffee & Vanilla Gelato with Coffee Sauce & Cookie Pieces, packaged in 16-fluid-ounce containers. The product was manufactured in Italy and distributed by Lidl US, based in Arlington, Virginia.
The agency classified the recall as Class I, its most serious category. This designation applies when there is a reasonable probability that exposure to a recalled product could cause serious adverse health consequences or death.
The classification followed a positive test result for Listeria monocytogenes in the gelato. Lidl initiated the recall voluntarily on October 16, while the FDA formally assigned the Class I designation on November 3.
Listeria infections can cause serious illness, particularly among certain vulnerable populations. According to Mayo Clinic, pregnant women, adults older than 65 and people with weakened immune systems face heightened risks from infections caused by the bacteria.
The FDA record identifies the recall under number H-0193-2027 and event ID 100138. It also confirms that the company notified customers or consignees using multiple communication methods, including options such as email, telephone, letters and press releases.
Lidl reported no illnesses associated with the affected gelato when it announced the recall on October 16. The FDA’s enforcement database continues to list the action as ongoing, with no termination date recorded.
Affected States, Product Identification and Consumer Guidance
The recalled gelato was shipped to Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia and Washington, D.C.
Consumers can identify the affected containers by checking the product information printed on the packaging. The recalled gelato carries UPC 4 056489 722458, lot number 085261 and a best-by date of March 26, 2028. Customers who purchased the affected product should discard it immediately or return it to their nearest Lidl store for a full refund. No receipt is required.
Customers seeking further information can contact Lidl US Customer Care at 844-747-5435, Monday through Saturday, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
According to Newsweek, The recall follows other Listeria-related actions involving dairy products in 2026. Clover Hill Dairy expanded a cheese recall in June, while Made Fresh Salads recalled assorted cream cheeses earlier in the year after contamination was detected on production equipment.
Previous outbreaks have also involved dairy products. A multistate outbreak linked to cheeses produced by Rizo-López Foods was associated with 26 illnesses, 23 hospitalizations and two deaths across 11 states. For the Lidl gelato recall, the FDA continues to list 1,122 affected units, with the recall remaining active as of the November 4 report.
