Ricotta Salata Cheese Recall Issued Amid Listeria Outbreak

At least three people have died and 11 others have been hospitalized due to a listeria outbreak linked to contaminated Ricotta salata cheese. 

The outbreak sparked a Frescolina Ricotta Salata cheese recall by Forever Cheese Inc., involving at least one lot that was distributed to 18 states between June 20 and August 9.

The 14 reported cases of listeria food poisoning occurred in 11 different states and included four pregnant women and affected two newborns.

According to information released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the 11 states that have reported illnesses or death are as follows: California (1), Colorado (1), Maryland (3), Minnesota (1), Nebraska (1), New Jersey (1), New Mexico (1), New York (1), Ohio (1), Pennsylvania (1), Virginia (1), and District of Columbia (1). Other states that Forever Cheese says the product  was distributed are Florida, Georgia, Oregon, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Montana, and West Virginia.

The recall affects Ricotta Salata Frescolina brand cheese with lot number T9425 and production code 441202.

Listeria infections pose a serious risk to young children and the elderly due to a weakened immune system. For pregnant women, listeriosis can pose a serious risk of miscarriages and still births.

Listeriosis has become more prevalent and concerning than some of the more common contaminations such as Salmonella. Simply because most people do not experience symptoms immediately. Listeria symptoms consist of fever, muscle aches, nausea, or diarrhea. Some people may develop more severe symptoms such as meningitis, mental changes, brain abscesses, or death.

The FDA and Forever Cheese Inc are encouraging consumers to stop eating the cheese and dispose of it. The manufacturer, Forever Cheese Inc., is contacting all distributors and retailers who may have received the cheese to alert them of the recall. Consumers who purchased the recalled cheese should contact the place of purchase for a full refund. Those with questions can call (888) 930-8693 and mention the recall to speak to Jeff DiMeo between 9 am- 5pm eastern time.