Recalled Cheeses, Yogurts, and Sour Creams Linked to Listeria Outbreak: CDC Alert
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a food safety alert regarding a listeria outbreak that has affected multiple states. The outbreak has been potentially linked to recalled cheeses, yogurts, and sour creams. So far, the outbreak has sickened 26 people, hospitalized 23, and tragically resulted in two deaths.
Rizo-López Foods, a company based in Modesto, California, voluntarily issued a recall for all cheeses and dairy products manufactured in their facility. The recall was prompted by concerns that the products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogene. In a press release, the company stated that the recalled products include cheese, yogurt, and sour cream. These dairy products were sold under various 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.
The CDC has reported that 26 individuals across eleven states have been infected with the outbreak strain of listeria. Out of those infected, 23 required hospitalization, and two individuals sadly lost their lives in Texas and California. However, the CDC also acknowledges that the actual number of cases may be higher since some people recover without seeking medical care or are never tested.
This particular strain of listeria has been under surveillance by the CDC for several years before the recall by Rizo-López Foods. Previous investigations had identified queso fresco and similar cheeses as potential sources of the outbreak. However, there was insufficient information to pinpoint a specific brand. The investigation was reopened in January 2024 after new cases were reported in December 2023 and the outbreak strain was found in a cheese sample from Rizo-López Foods.
Listeria is a bacterium that can cause severe and even fatal infections, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women are particularly at risk, as listeria can lead to miscarriages or stillbirths. Symptoms of listeria infection include fever, muscle aches, tiredness, and, in some cases, headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures. These symptoms typically manifest within two weeks after consuming contaminated food, but they can appear as early as the same day or as late as ten weeks after exposure.
The CDC advises anyone who may have purchased the recalled products to dispose of them immediately or return them to the place of purchase. It is crucial not to consume any of the recalled cheeses or dairy products. Rizo-López Foods also encourages consumers to check their refrigerators and freezers for any of the listed products and discard them. If consumers have any concerns or questions, they can contact the company at (833)296-2233, which operates 24 hours a day.
As of now, Rizo-López Foods has not responded to requests for comment from Fox News Digital. The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely and urges the public to remain vigilant in order to prevent further cases of listeria infection.
In conclusion, it is essential to prioritize food safety and take immediate action when recalls are issued. By following the CDC’s guidelines and disposing of the recalled products, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from potential harm. Stay informed and stay safe.