Newspulse

In recent weeks, concerns have arisen over the safety of raw cheddar cheese products in the United States due to multistate outbreaks of E. coli and listeria. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of certain cheddar cheese products manufactured by Raw Farm. This FAQ blog post aims to provide comprehensive information about the recall, addressing common queries and concerns regarding the safety of cheddar cheese products.

1. Why are cheddar cheese products being recalled?

• Cheddar cheese products are being recalled due to their potential link to multistate outbreaks of E. coli. The recall is a precautionary measure taken by Raw Farm after the FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) raised concerns about a possible association between raw cheddar cheese and illnesses reported in several states.

2. What prompted the recall of cheddar cheese products by Raw Farm?

• The FDA contacted Raw Farm regarding the epidemiological possibility that their raw cheddar cheese might have caused illnesses reported between October 18, 2023, and January 31, 2024. Faecal samples collected from patients in multiple states appeared to match each other in the National PULSENET database, prompting the recall as a precautionary measure.

3. Which specific cheddar cheese products are subject to the recall?

• The recall affects the following Raw Farm cheddar cheese products:
  • 16-ounce Raw Cheddar Cheese – Pound block, barcode 835204000156
  • 8-ounce Raw Cheddar Cheese – Half-pound block, barcode 835204001177
  • 8-ounce Raw Cheddar Cheese – Half-pound shred, barcode 835204001184

4. Has E. coli been detected in the recalled cheddar cheese products?

• No, none of the products made available for sale to consumers tested positive for E. coli. However, the recall is being conducted out of an abundance of caution due to the potential association between the products and reported illnesses.

5. Is this recall related to the recent listeria outbreak in dairy products?

• No, the recall by Raw Farm is specifically linked to the E. coli outbreak and not to the recent listeria outbreak. Earlier in the month, a separate California-based company recalled dairy products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

6. What steps should consumers take if they have purchased the recalled cheddar cheese products?

• Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators for the recalled cheddar cheese products and discard or return them to the place of purchase for a refund. Additionally, individuals who have consumed these products and are experiencing symptoms of foodborne illness should seek medical attention.

Summary:
The recall of raw cheddar cheese products by Raw Farm underscores the importance of food safety measures in preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses. While no E. coli has been detected in the recalled products, the recall serves as a precautionary measure to protect consumers from potential health risks. It is essential for consumers to stay informed about product recalls and take appropriate actions to safeguard their health.