Multi-State Listeria Outbreak Prompts Voluntary Recall of Dairy Products
A recent multi-state outbreak of listeria infections has prompted a voluntary recall of dairy products by a California-based company. The outbreak, which has claimed the lives of two people and hospitalized 23 others, has raised concerns among federal health officials who are now conducting an investigation.
The outbreak has been linked to Hispanic-style fresh cheeses, such as queso fresco and cotija. Epidemiological evidence pointed to these cheeses as the source of the bacterial outbreak, but investigators struggled to identify a specific brand or manufacturer. However, recent developments have shed light on the situation.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initiated an on-site inspection of the Rizo Lopez Foods facility in California after patients reported consuming the company’s Don Francisco brand queso fresco or cotija. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that these products were indeed connected to the listeria infections.
Initially, the company had recalled its queso fresco and similar cheeses after a potential link to listeria infections dating back to 2017 was discovered. However, following a sample test conducted by the Hawaii State Department of Health’s Food and Drug Branch in January, which detected listeria in the company’s aged cotija cheese, Rizo Lopez Foods expanded its recall to include all its dairy products.
The recall now encompasses all cheeses, yogurts, and creams sold under various brand names, including Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo Bros, and others. These products were distributed nationwide and can be found in grocery stores under different names. Some of the retailers mentioned by Rizo Lopez Foods include El Super, Cardenas Market, Northgate Gonzalez, Superior Groceries, El Rancho, Vallarta, Food City, La Michoacana, and Numero Uno Markets.
Confirmed cases of listeria linked to these dairy products have been reported in several states, including California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Listeria is a dangerous bacteria that can cause fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. It poses the greatest risk to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. In pregnant women, listeria infection can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.
Disturbingly, two cases of listeria infection occurred during pregnancy, resulting in one fetal loss, according to the CDC. As a precautionary measure, Rizo Lopez Foods has halted production and distribution of all its cheeses and dairy products until the investigation is complete.
Consumers who have consumed these products and experience any symptoms are advised to seek medical attention promptly. The FDA encourages individuals to report any illnesses or complaints related to the recall to their Consumer Complaint Coordinators. Additionally, affected consumers should dispose of the recalled products or return them to the retailer.
The recall affects dairy products sold under various names, including Tio Francisco, Rizo Bros, Food City, San Carlos, Casa Cardenas, Campesino, Santa Maria, El Huache, La Ordena, San Carlos, Don Francisco, Rio Grande, Dos Ranchitos, and 365 Whole Foods Market.
For more detailed information about the affected products and the recall, consumers can visit the FDA’s website.
It is crucial for consumers to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect their health. By being vigilant and following the guidelines provided by health authorities, we can help prevent further cases of listeria infections and ensure the safety of our communities.