Raw Farm has initiated a voluntary recall of several cheddar cheese products following concerns from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding a possible connection to E. coli infections.

E. coli Outbreak Investigation

The FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are currently investigating a multi-state outbreak of E. coli infections potentially linked to Raw Farm dairy products. The recall was announced this week, and the company stated it is taking action “under protest.”

Cases and Affected States

As of this week, nine cases of E. coli have been reported across California, Florida, and Texas. A significant portion of those affected are children under the age of five, raising concerns about the severity of the outbreak.

Recall Details and Product List

Despite company testing and FDA analysis not detecting E. coli, Raw Farm is recalling various shredded and block cheddar cheese varieties. The affected products were distributed nationwide and sold at Sprouts Farmers Market and H-E-B stores, with potential availability in other retail locations.

  • 8 oz Lightly Salted Cheddar Block
  • 80 oz Lightly Salted Cheddar Block
  • 16 oz Lightly Salted Cheddar Block
  • 80 oz Bag of Original Cheddar Shred
  • 16 oz Jalapeño Cheddar Block
  • 8 oz Lightly Salted Cheddar Shred
  • 8 oz Jalapeño Cheddar Block

FDA Recommendations

The FDA advises consumers who have purchased the recalled cheese to check their refrigerators and freezers. Retailers are urged to remove the products from shelves. Do not consume, sell, or serve the recalled cheese. Discard any affected products and thoroughly sanitize any surfaces they may have touched.

FDA's Proactive Approach

The FDA initially requested the voluntary recall three days prior to Raw Farm’s announcement, but did not receive a response at that time. This highlights the agency’s proactive efforts to address the outbreak and protect public health. The FDA updated the number of confirmed E. coli cases on March 26.