Raw Farm Recalls Cheddar Cheese After E. Coli Outbreak Hits 3 States
Raw Farm, a California dairy company, is recalling more than half a dozen varieties of its raw milk cheddar cheese after a dangerous strain of E. coli sickened people in three states. The company initially refused to recall the products but changed course Thursday.
Raw Farm of Fresno, California, announced Thursday it is voluntarily recalling more than half a dozen varieties of its raw milk cheddar cheese linked to an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak.
The outbreak has sickened people across three states, according to the Food and Drug Administration. Health authorities had been investigating the company for weeks before the recall.
The company initially refused to recall its products despite the ongoing investigation. Raw Farm denies that its cheese caused the outbreak, even as it proceeds with the voluntary recall.
E. coli O157:H7 is a particularly dangerous strain that can cause severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. In serious cases, it can lead to kidney failure or death.
The FDA says genetic testing shows the E. coli samples from sick people are closely related to each other. Raw Farm-brand milk from 2025 should no longer be available for sale, according to the agency.
Raw milk products are not pasteurized, a heating process that kills harmful bacteria. This makes them riskier than regular dairy products but popular among some consumers who believe they offer health benefits.
E. coli O157:H7 can cause severe illness and even death. If you bought Raw Farm cheddar cheese recently, you should throw it away. Raw milk products carry higher risks of foodborne illness than regular dairy products.
FDA continues investigating the outbreak. More details on affected products and states involved are expected.
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