FDA Issues Class I Recall for Grated Cheese Due to Listeria Risk

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated a previous recall of grated cheese products to a Class I status, indicating a serious health risk due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

 

This bacterium can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, older adults, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

 

The recall encompasses various brands, including Locatelli, Pinna, and Boar's Head, distributed nationwide to retailers like Target, Walmart, Publix, and Aldi.

 

Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators for the following products:

 

Recalled Cheese Products:

 

Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano

 

4-ounce and 8-ounce plastic cups with lids

 

Lot numbers: 1000572472, 1000570734, 1000570735, 1000570736, 1000572482, 1000572483, 1000572485

 

Approximately 6,632 units recalled

 

Pinna Grated Pecorino Romano

 

10-pound plastic bags

 

Lot number: 1000572486

 

Approximately 45 bags recalled

 

Boar's Head Grated Pecorino Romano

 

6-ounce plastic cups with lids

 

Lot number: 1000572486

 

Approximately 2,106 units recalled

 

These products were distributed to 31 states, including Alabama, California, Florida, New York, and Texas, as well as Puerto Rico.

 

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged to discard them immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.

 

Symptoms of listeria infection can include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

 

In severe cases, the infection can lead to miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

 

While no illnesses have been reported to date, the FDA emphasizes the importance of caution.

 

The Ambriola Company, responsible for these products, has suspended production and distribution as they conduct a thorough review of their sanitation and food safety procedures.

 

For more information, consumers can contact the FDA or visit their official website.

 

Staying informed and vigilant is crucial to ensuring public health and safety.