(CNN) A deadly, multistate outbreak of Listeria infections has been linked to packaged hard-boiled eggs, and retailers and consumers are warned not to serve, sell, use or consume the products.

The peeled eggs were packaged in plastic pails by Almark Foods in Gainesville, Georgia, according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which along with the US Food and Drug Administration is investigating. They were sold nationwide to food service operators, so consumers likely would find them in a store or a restaurant, the CDC said.

Four of seven people who reported infections across five states have been hospitalized, and one death was reported in Texas, the CDC said. Those affected also were in Florida, Maine, Pennsylvania and South Carolina. The cases date from April 2017 to November 12.

The CDC released a nationwide alert this week. The product has not been recalled. Almark Foods hard-boiled eggs sold directly to consumers and those hard-boiled at stores or restaurants are not included in the alert.

"It's important to note that the product in question was shipped to food service distributors, restaurants and other wholesale outlets and does not involve eggs in packages on shelves for consumer purchase at retail stores," Almark said in a statement to CNN.

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