The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for Raw Farm cheddar cheese products following reports of illnesses. The recall includes two cheddar cheese blocks and one shredded cheese product. Raw Farm voluntarily initiated the recall after illnesses were reported between October 18, 2023, and January 31, 2024. The FDA warning specifically mentions the following products: Raw Cheddar Cheese—Pound block, barcode 835204000156; Raw Cheddar Cheese—Half-pound block, barcode 835204001177; and Raw Cheddar Cheese—Half-pound shred, barcode 835204001184. It is important to note that only batches older than January 16, 2024, are affected by the recall. Products purchased after this date are not subject to the recall.
The packaging of the recalled products is described as clear or opaque with a white label and black lettering. Additionally, a drawn picture of two cows in a field can be found at the base of the packaging. These cheeses were sold at various retailers across the United States. The reported illnesses occurred after purchasing the products from Sprouts Farmers Market and Bristol Farms outlets. As of now, there have been no reported deaths associated with the consumption of these products.
Raw Farm released a statement on the FDA website, stating that no product samples consumed by consumers or products available for sale have tested positive for E.Coli 0157:H7. The recall is being conducted as a precautionary measure based on fecal samples. Newsweek reached out to Raw Farm for further comment outside of normal working hours.
The illnesses have been reported in multiple states, including California, Colorado, Texas, and Utah. California has the highest number of cases, with four individuals affected. Colorado follows with three cases, while Utah and Texas each have two and one case, respectively. The FDA’s investigation report reveals that whole genome sequencing analysis of E. coli isolates from the ill individuals shows a close genetic relationship among them. This suggests that the outbreak is likely linked to a common source of infection.
Of the individuals who fell ill and were interviewed by state and local public-health officials, 75 percent reported consuming cheddar cheese made by Raw Farm. The FDA advises anyone who has purchased the recalled products to either discard them or return them to the place of purchase for credit. The investigation into the potential contamination of the product is still ongoing.
E. coli infections can cause various unpleasant symptoms, including painful stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. If individuals suspect they have contracted E. coli and experience these symptoms, it is important to contact their healthcare provider.
In conclusion, the FDA has issued a recall for Raw Farm cheddar cheese products due to reported illnesses. The recall includes specific batches of cheddar cheese blocks and shredded cheese products. Although no deaths have been reported, individuals in several states have fallen ill after consuming these products. Raw Farm has emphasized that no tested samples have shown contamination with E.Coli 0157:H7. However, as a precautionary measure, the recall is being conducted based on fecal samples. The investigation into the source of contamination is ongoing. Consumers who have purchased the affected products are advised to dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase for credit. Symptoms of E. coli infection can be severe, and individuals experiencing such symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.