A significant food safety operation is underway following an urgent recall of cheese products from an Ohio-based manufacturer over fears of Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a public health alert for several cheese varieties produced by the Middlefield Cheese Company. The recall was initiated after routine testing detected the presence of the potentially dangerous bacteria.
Products Affected by the Recall
Shoppers are being urged to check their refrigerators for the following products, which are subject to the recall:
- Brick Cheese
- Muenster Cheese
- Pepper Jack Cheese
- Swiss Cheese
- Provolone Cheese
- Colby Cheese
- Cheddar Cheese
- Yoder's Amish Cup Cheese
These products were distributed under the brand names Middlefield Cheese and Dutch Valley and were sold in various US states.
The Dangers of Listeria
Listeria infection can be particularly serious for vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, the elderly, newborns, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Symptoms can include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea.
The FDA advises that any consumers who have purchased the affected products should dispose of them immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
As of now, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall. The investigation, which includes tracing the distribution chain, is ongoing.
