Sierra Nevada Cheese Recalls Raw Milk Products After E. coli Outbreak

Sierra Nevada Cheese Company initiated a nationwide recall of all its Grazier Raw Milk Cheese products on Tuesday, September 29, following an E. coli outbreak that has sickened 13 individuals across nine states and resulted in eight hospitalizations. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating the outbreak, which has been linked to the E. coli O26:H11 strain, a type of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) known to cause severe and potentially fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations. The company has stated that it is unable to identify specific lot numbers, date codes, or production dates at risk, leading to the recall of all Grazier Raw Milk Cheese varieties. Affected products include Graziers Raw Milk Monterey Jack in 8 oz squares and 5 lb loaves, Graziers Raw Milk Jalapeño Jack in 8 oz squares and 5 lb loaves, Graziers Raw Milk Medium Cheddar in 8 oz squares, 16 oz bricks, and 5 lb loaves, Graziers Raw Milk Sharp Cheddar in 8 oz squares and 5 lb loaves, and Graziers Raw Milk Cheddar in 40 lb blocks. The specific UPC codes and item numbers for these products have been provided by the company. The recalled cheese was distributed to retailers nationwide and sold online, though the FDA's outbreak notice did not specify particular retail outlets. Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled Grazier Raw Milk Cheese products are advised not to consume them. Instead, they should either dispose of the product safely or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Symptoms of E. coli infection can include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. In some cases, particularly with STEC strains, a serious complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) can develop, which can lead to kidney failure. The illnesses reported in this outbreak have occurred in California, Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, Tennessee, and Utah. The recall underscores the risks associated with consuming raw milk products, which have not undergone pasteurization to kill harmful bacteria. The FDA and CDC continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance on food safety. Consumers experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection should seek medical attention immediately and inform their healthcare provider about potential exposure to contaminated food products. The Sierra Nevada Cheese Company has not yet released information regarding the source of the contamination or the steps being taken to prevent future incidents.