Raw milk cheese recalled in US over E. coli contamination fears - IOL

All Graziers Raw Milk Cheese products currently in distribution in the US have been recalled over potential E. coli O26:H11 contamination.

Sierra Nevada Cheese Company in Willows, California, has voluntarily recalled all Graziers Raw Milk Cheese products currently in distribution over potential contamination with E. coli O26:H11.

The recalled products were distributed across the US through distributors, retailers and direct customers.

The recall comes as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) investigate a multistate outbreak of E. coli O26:H11.

The investigation has not identified a specific lot, date code or production date linked to the potential contamination.

As a result, Sierra Nevada Cheese Company has recalled all Graziers Raw Milk Cheese products currently in distribution as a precaution.

According to information provided during the investigation, illnesses have been epidemiologically associated with consumption of Graziers Raw Milk Medium Cheddar.

There have been 13 illnesses identified to date, according to the information provided by the company.

The investigation remains ongoing, and a specific lot, production date or source of contamination has not been identified.

E. coli O26:H11 is a Shiga toxin-producing strain of E. coli (STEC) that can cause serious illness.

Symptoms can include acute diarrhoea, which may involve bloody stools, within a few days of consuming the bacteria.

However, some infected people can develop haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition that can cause haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia and kidney failure.

Young children, particularly those under five, elderly people and people with weakened immune systems are among those who can develop more severe illness.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled Graziers Raw Milk Cheese products should not consume or serve them.

They should return the products to the place of purchase for a refund or dispose of them.

Sierra Nevada Cheese Company initiated the voluntary recall after being contacted by the FDA regarding the ongoing FDA and CDC outbreak investigation.

The company said it immediately stopped production and shipment of all Graziers Raw Milk Cheese.

It also notified customers who had purchased the affected products directly from the company and issued notices through its website and social media.

Sierra Nevada Cheese Company said it is cooperating with the FDA and CDC as the investigation continues.