A popular brand of cheese has been recalled after an E. coli outbreak traced back to the product had hospitalized eight people.
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What Cheese Products are Affected?
The affected cheese products were sold by Sierra Nevada Graziers nationwide at both retailers and online. Here is a list of the affected products below:
- Sierra Nevada Graziers Grass-Fed Raw Medium Cheddar
- Sierra Nevada Graziers Grass-Fed Raw Sharp Cheddar
- Sierra Nevada Graziers Grass-Fed Raw Monterey Jack
- Sierra Nevada Graziers Grass-Fed Raw Jalapeño Jack
The FDA explained that the affected products were sold in both 8oz and 16oz package sizes. They were also sold to both food service customers and wholesale outlets in five-pound loaves.
The FDA expressed concern that "this product has a long shelf life," adding, "Check your refrigerators and freezers for the recalled raw milk cheeses and throw them away. If you refrigerated or froze cheese without the original packaging and can't tell if it's part of the recall, throw it away."
They added that "Consumers who purchased recalled cheese may return it to the place of purchase for a refund."
The following states have reported an E. coli outbreak linked to the cheese: California; Colorado; Georgia; Kentucky; Mississippi; Nevada; Oregon; Tennessee; and Utah.
The FDA Says Raw Dairy Can Harm You
This comes after the FDA released a press statement confirming its stance on raw dairy products. In case you weren't aware, raw dairy products are becoming more popular. This is something experts have expressed concern about.
Their website explains that there has been a long history of pasteurization to make milk safe. "Pasteurization of milk was adopted decades ago as a basic public health measure to kill dangerous bacteria and largely eliminate the risk of getting sick from one of the most important staples of the American diet. In 1987, the agency issued a regulation prohibiting the interstate sale of raw milk."
"In recent years, however, a small number of Americans (less than one percent) have rejected pasteurization in favor of raw (or unpasteurized) milk," they explain.
They go on to explain the risks of raw milk. "The health risks are clear. Since 1987, there have been 143 reported outbreaks of illness... associated with consumption of raw milk and raw milk products."
