California-based Rizo Lopez Foods has issued a recall for numerous cheese and dairy products following a listeria outbreak that has resulted in two deaths and over 20 hospitalizations across the United States. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has advised consumers to avoid consuming the recalled brands of cheese, sour cream, and yogurt, and to dispose of any purchased products. Additionally, individuals or businesses that have purchased the recalled items should thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the products.
The FDA has identified pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, newborns, and adults over the age of 65 as being most susceptible to severe illness from a listeria infection. Listeria outbreaks can be fatal, making it crucial for consumers to be aware of the risks associated with this bacterium.
The listeria outbreak dates back to 2014, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Previous investigations in 2017 and 2021 identified soft cheese, including queso fresco, as a potential source of the outbreak. However, a specific brand had not been identified until now. In January, the CDC reopened its investigation after new cases were reported, and they were able to identify the strain in a cheese sample from Rizo Lopez Foods. The CDC stated, “Epidemiology and recent laboratory data show that queso fresco and cotija made by Rizo Lopez Foods are making people in this outbreak sick.”
As a result of the findings, Rizo Lopez Foods recalled aged cotija cheese on January 11 after listeria was detected in the product by state officials in Hawaii. On Monday, the company expanded the recall to include 58 cheese and dairy products. Rizo Lopez Foods has temporarily halted production and distribution of these products while the investigation continues.
Since 2014, a total of 26 people in 11 states have been infected with the outbreak strain of listeria, with 23 individuals requiring hospitalization. Tragically, two deaths, one in California and one in Texas, have been linked to the outbreak. Additionally, one person experienced a pregnancy loss due to the infection. The affected states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington.
The recalled products include various cheese, yogurt, and sour cream sold under brand names such as Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo Bros, Rio Grande, Food City, El Huache, La Ordena, San Carlos, Campesino, Santa Maria, Dos Ranchitos, Casa Cardenas, and 365 Whole Foods Market. Consumers are urged to check the full list of recalled products to ensure they do not have any of the affected items.
Listeria is an infection caused by consuming food contaminated with the Listeria monocytogenes bacterium. It is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illnesses in the United States. In addition to cheese, previous listeria outbreaks have been linked to deli meats, packaged salads, and enoki mushrooms.
Symptoms of listeria infection can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms may include fever and vomiting, while a severe infection can lead to loss of balance and convulsions. It is essential for individuals to be aware of these symptoms and seek medical attention if they believe they may have been exposed to listeria.
In conclusion, the recent listeria outbreak linked to Rizo Lopez Foods has raised concerns about the safety of certain cheese and dairy products. Consumers are advised to avoid consuming the recalled brands and to properly dispose of any purchased items. The investigation into the outbreak is ongoing, and it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the risks associated with listeria infection. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, consumers can protect themselves and their families from potential harm.
