Nationwide Recall of Cheese Products Grows to Include Costco and Trader Joe’s
A nationwide recall of cheese products due to the risk of listeria contamination has expanded to include items sold at popular retailers Costco and Trader Joe’s. The recall, which initially included more than four dozen dairy products, has now grown to over five dozen, encompassing a range of items such as enchiladas, bean dip, dressings, and sauces.
The recall was initiated by Rizo-López Foods of Modesto, California, after the discovery of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The company recalled various dairy products, including Queso Fresco and Cotija Cheese, which were distributed nationwide under brand names like 365 Whole Foods Market, Don Francisco, and Tio Francisco. Stores affected by the recall included Harris Teeter and Whole Foods.
Following the initial recall, an expansion was announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Thursday. This expansion included additional products sold at Costco and Trader Joe’s, such as black bean dip, enchiladas, salad dressing, and salads.
The recall also impacted other brands and retailers. Fresh Creative of Vista, California, a division of Reser Foods, recalled several products made with a cheese ingredient supplied by Rizo-López Foods. These products were sold at stores including Costco, H-E-B, Trader Joe’s, and Albertson’s in multiple states.
Trader Joe’s, based in Monrovia, California, issued a recall for all lots of products containing cotija cheese supplied by Rizo-López Foods. The affected products included Trader Joe’s Chicken Enchiladas Verde, Cilantro Salad Dressing, Elote Chopped Salad Kit, and Southwest Salad. However, no illnesses have been reported in connection with these products.
Simply Fresh of Buena Park, California, also issued a recall for their Rojo’s Black Bean 6 Layer Dip 2-20-ounce Club Pack, as it contained the recalled cotija cheese from Rizo-López Foods. The company stated that no harmful effects have been reported thus far.
In total, 7,350 cases of the recalled products were distributed to Costco stores across several states. The company advises consumers to check their refrigerators and freezers for any recalled products and discard them immediately. It is crucial not to consume these products. If a product was frozen without its original packaging and it is unclear whether it is part of the recall, it is recommended to dispose of it as well. Consumers can obtain a refund from the store where they purchased the products.
To prevent the spread of listeria, it is important to clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled products. Listeria can survive in refrigerators and contaminate other foods and surfaces. Following the FDA’s safe handling and cleaning guidelines can help reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can cause a serious infection called listeriosis. While most people who contract listeriosis do not become seriously ill, certain individuals are more susceptible to severe infections, including pregnant women, newborns, adults over 65 years old, and those with weakened immune systems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Infection (CDC), approximately 1,600 people get sick and 260 die from listeriosis each year.
Symptoms of listeriosis may appear within two weeks after consuming contaminated food and can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea. In more severe cases, individuals may experience headaches, a stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. If any symptoms develop, it is important to seek medical attention.
In conclusion, the nationwide recall of cheese products has expanded to include Costco and Trader Joe’s. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers for any recalled products and discard them immediately. Cleaning and sanitizing surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled products is also crucial to prevent the spread of listeria. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of listeriosis and seek medical attention if any develop. Stay informed and stay safe.