FDA Investigates E. coli Outbreak

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently investigating a multi-state outbreak of E. coli infections linked to Raw Farm-brand Raw Cheddar Cheese. The agency’s investigation began after multiple individuals reported illness following consumption of the product.

Affected Products and Purchase Dates

The FDA alert encompasses both block and shredded varieties of Raw Farm-brand Raw Cheddar Cheese purchased on or after January 4, 2026. These cheeses were sold at Sprouts Farmers Market and H-E-B stores. Currently, there has been no official recall issued for the product.

Company Response

The FDA has requested that Raw Farm voluntarily remove the potentially contaminated products from the market. However, as of the latest update, the company has not responded to this request.

Outbreak Details and Geographic Impact

To date, FDA officials have linked nine cases of illness in three states to the cheese. Three of those individuals required hospitalization. The last reported case was on February 20.

State-by-State Breakdown

Confirmed cases have been identified in California, Florida, and Texas, with the majority occurring in California. Despite this concentration, the product was distributed nationwide.

Vulnerability of Young Children

The FDA has noted that a disproportionate number of those affected are young children. Most cases involve individuals under five years old, with four of the seven initially known cases affecting children under three.

FDA Recommendations for Consumers

The FDA recommends that consumers check their refrigerators and freezers for the potentially contaminated cheese. Any product purchased on or after January 4, 2026, should be discarded. Unidentified cheese in the freezer should also be thrown away.

Retailer Guidance

Retailers are urged to remove the affected cheeses from their shelves. Additionally, the FDA advises thorough cleaning and sanitization of any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the cheese to prevent cross-contamination.

Symptoms and Potential Complications

Symptoms of E. coli infection typically appear a few days after consuming the contaminated cheese. These include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the specific E. coli strain.

Some strains can cause bloody diarrhea and potentially life-threatening complications, such as kidney failure, high blood pressure, and neurological problems.