FDA Probes Illnesses Tied to California Farm’s Raw Cheddar Cheese
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating a significant health concern involving Raw Farm’s raw cheddar cheese. The agency has identified this product as linked to a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections.
Raw Cheddar Cheese Outbreak Details
The outbreak has been associated with seven reported cases of infections across multiple states, namely California, Florida, and Texas. The FDA disclosed that four of these cases occurred in children aged three or younger.
Timeline of Illnesses
- Outbreak duration: September 1, 2025 – February 13, 2026
- Infected individuals: Seven confirmed cases
- Hospitalizations: Two individuals
- Severity: No deaths or kidney failures have been reported
Three patients reported consuming Raw Farm-brand raw cheddar cheese. Genetic testing confirmed that the bacteria responsible for the illnesses stemmed from a shared source.
Products Involved in the Investigation
Raw Farm’s raw cheddar cheese linked to the outbreak includes:
- All sizes of the original block “Raw Cheddar”
- All sizes of the original shredded “Raw Cheddar”
Company’s Response
Despite the findings, Raw Farm has declined to issue a recall. The company disputes the allegations made by the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They maintain that all milk is rigorously tested both before cheese production and prior to product release.
Consumer Advisory
The CDC has issued a recommendation for consumers to avoid the affected products. They also advise cleaning surfaces and utensils that may have come into contact with the raw cheese using hot, soapy water.
Health Risks of Raw Milk Cheese
Raw milk cheese poses various health risks due to the presence of harmful bacteria, including:
- E. coli
- Listeria
- Salmonella
Particularly vulnerable groups include children under age five, individuals over 65, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems.
Previous Concerns
This isn’t Raw Farm’s first encounter with health issues. In 2024, the company was linked to multiple salmonella cases. Consumer safety remains a priority, and ongoing testing by the FDA and state agencies aims to resolve the current concerns associated with the company’s products.
As investigations continue, the FDA will monitor the situation diligently. Awareness and proactive measures are essential to safeguard public health.
