Ohio Cheese Recall Due to Listeria Contamination
Cheesemakers in Ohio are facing concerns after tests revealed the presence of dangerous Listeria bacteria in various dairy products, which poses a risk to pregnant women, children, and the elderly.
Middlefield Original Cheese Co-op issued an emergency recall on Friday for over 5,400 pounds of cheese sold in Ohio from July 14th to August 7th.
The recalled items include grass-fed pepper jack, Monterey jack, white cheddar, and western aquaside cheese. Some of these varieties are sold under Middlefield’s own labels as well as those from Copia Collective and Farmers cheese.
The contamination was detected during routine testing of cheese made on specific dates—June 16th, June 24th, and July 16th—leading the company to halt production while an investigation is underway. General Manager Nevin Byler confirmed the actions taken to address the issue.
Listeria can lead to severe health complications, including abortion and stillbirth in pregnant women, and fatal infections in children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Common symptoms associated with Listeria infection can include fever, headaches, nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhea. While no illnesses have been reported yet, officials caution that symptoms may take weeks to appear.
The recall has mainly impacted white cheddar, with 4,544 pounds being affected. Additionally, 640 pounds of Monterey jack and 246 pounds of pepper jack, ranging from 8-ounce packages to 40-pound blocks, were also recalled. A small batch of horseradish cheese, totaling 2.5 pounds in 8-ounce packages, tested positive as well.
Customers should check for the following codes on their cheese:
- Pepper Jack: 251661
- Horse Radish: 2524061
- Monterey Jack: 251672
- White Cheddar 40 Pound Block: 7-16-25B
Shoppers are advised to discard the affected cheese or return it for a complete refund. For further inquiries, contact the Middlefield Recall Hotline at 440-632-5567 during business hours.
