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Raw milk cheese products made by Sierra Nevada Cheese Company have been recalled after 13 illnesses were linked to a suspected multistate E. coli outbreak. The company, based in Willows, California, voluntarily recalled all of its Graziers raw milk cheese products on Sept. 29, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The recall affects several varieties sold under the Graziers brand. Officials believe the products may be contaminated with Escherichia coli O26:H11, a strain that can cause serious illness, particularly among young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Urgent Raw Milk Cheese Recall Involves All Lots
The FDA said the recalled products are not connected to one specific lot, date code or production date. Instead, all lots of the affected products are included in the recall.
- Graziers Grass-Fed Raw Medium Cheddar
- Graziers Raw Sharp Cheddar
- Graziers Raw Monterey Jack
- Graziers Raw Jalapeño Jack
Sierra Nevada Cheese Company began the voluntary recall after the FDA contacted the business about illnesses reportedly associated with the products. The company said it has stopped production of its raw milk cheese products while officials investigate the possible source of contamination.
Reported illnesses have been connected to nine states: California, Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, Tennessee and Utah. The FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are working with the company as the investigation continues.
What E. coli O26:H11 Can Do
E. coli O26:H11 can cause acute gastrointestinal illness within days of consuming contaminated food. Common symptoms may include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and bloody stools. Many people recover within about a week, but some infections can become dangerous.
The FDA warned that children under age 5, elderly people and individuals with compromised immune systems face a greater risk of developing hemolytic uremic syndrome, commonly known as HUS. This serious complication can cause red blood cell destruction, low platelet levels and kidney failure. In severe cases, HUS can be fatal.
Anyone who develops concerning symptoms after eating a recalled product should contact a health care provider. People experiencing bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, dehydration or signs of kidney problems should seek medical attention promptly.
Critical Steps for Consumers
Consumers who may have purchased the recalled cheese should not eat, serve or taste it, even if it looks and smells normal. Food contaminated with E. coli may not show visible signs of spoilage.
The FDA advises consumers to return the products to the place of purchase for a refund or dispose of them safely. Anyone who handled the cheese should wash their hands thoroughly and clean surfaces, utensils and containers that may have come into contact with it.
Because the recall covers all lots rather than a narrow date range, shoppers should check their refrigerators, freezers and cheese storage areas for any Graziers raw milk products. Consumers should also avoid serving the recalled cheese to children, older relatives or anyone with a weakened immune system.
Company Cooperating With Federal Officials
Sierra Nevada Cheese Company has posted recall notices and said it is cooperating with the FDA and CDC. The company expressed appreciation for customers’ understanding and support while the investigation and recall process move forward.
Consumers with questions can contact Sierra Nevada Cheese Company by phone during weekday business hours or by email through the company’s recall support team. Health officials may issue additional information if more products, illnesses or states become connected to the investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What raw milk cheese products were recalled?
The recall covers all lots of Graziers Grass-Fed Raw Medium Cheddar, Raw Sharp Cheddar, Raw Monterey Jack and Raw Jalapeño Jack made by Sierra Nevada Cheese Company.
Why was the cheese recalled?
The FDA said 13 illnesses have been linked to the products in a suspected multistate outbreak involving E. coli O26:H11.
How can consumers identify the recalled cheese?
There is no single lot number, date code or production date identifying the recall. All lots of the listed Graziers raw milk products are included.
What should consumers do with recalled cheese?
Do not eat or serve it. Return the cheese to the place of purchase for a refund or dispose of it safely.
