A nationwide recall of several popular grated cheese products has been labeled under the highest risk level by the Food and Drug Administration after testing confirmed the presence of Listeria.
The cheese was initially recalled in November, but the FDA reclassified the recall as Class I—the most serious safety classification that the agency hands down—indicating a reasonable probability that exposure to the products could cause serious illness or death.
The recall traces back to The Ambriola Company, which voluntarily recalled select cheese products after routine testing detected Listeria monocytogenes at its manufacturing facility in West Caldwell, New Jersey.
Listeria infections can be severe.
While healthy adults may experience short-term symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, and diarrhea, the bacteria poses an elevated risk to pregnant women, older adults, young children, and immunocompromised individuals. Infections can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or death.
No illnesses have been confirmed in connection with the recalled cheese products.
The recall affects eight grated Pecorino Romano products, including items sold directly to consumers at grocery stores and bulk products for commercial applications. The products were shipped nationwide between Nov. 3 and Nov. 20.
What Cheese Brands Are Affected By Listeria Recall?
Brands included in the Class I recall are Locatelli, Pinna, Boar’s Head, Member’s Mark (Sam’s Club), and Ambriola, all tied to specific lot numbers identified by the FDA.
The FDA is urging consumers not to eat any recalled products. Items should be discarded or returned for a refund if possible. Anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with listeria infection is advised to contact a healthcare provider immediately.
The FDA continues to monitor the recall and distribution of the affected products.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.