Listeria Concerns Prompt FDA’s Highest Risk Recall of Cheese in 20 States
Recent concerns regarding listeria contamination have led the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to escalate a cheese recall to its highest risk category. The recall includes more than 11,500 units of grated Pecorino Romano cheese from the Ambriola Company, based in New Jersey.
Listeria Concerns and Class I Recall
The FDA has classified this recall as a Class I incident. This designation indicates a significant risk of serious adverse health consequences or even death from exposure to the cheese products. The recall was prompted by confirmed cases of contamination with listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacteria responsible for listeriosis.
Products Affected
The recall encompasses eight cheese products available in various packaging formats. These products were distributed across 20 states, including Oregon and Washington. Brands involved in this recall include:
- Locatelli
- Boar’s Head
- Pinna
- Ambriola
- Member’s Mark
Health Risks of Listeriosis
Listeriosis can trigger severe symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Stiff neck
- Confusion and loss of balance
- Convulsions
- Diarrhea
This infection is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it can lead to miscarriages or premature delivery. Individuals with weakened immune systems are also at high risk.
Recall Details
Customers who purchased the affected cheese products are advised not to consume them. Instead, they should dispose of or return the items to the store for a full refund. Those with questions can contact Ambriola at 1-800-962-8224.
Specific Product Information
The following products are included in the recall:
- Locatelli Pecorino Romano Grated – 4-ounce cup (Expiration: 05/03/26, 05/10/26, 05/17/26)
- Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano – 8-ounce cup (Multiple expiry dates from 04/06/26 to 05/17/26)
- Boar’s Head Grated Pecorino Romano – 6-ounce cup (Expiration: 03/04/26, 03/12/26)
- Member’s Mark Pecorino Romano – 1.5-pound bag (Expiration: 03/25/26, 03/30/26, 04/05/26)
- Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano – sold by the pound (Multiple expiry dates from 03/04/26 to 03/13/26)
- Ambriola Grated Pecorino Romano – sold by the pound (Expiry dates: 02/28/26, 03/04/26, 03/11/26)
- Pinna Grated Pecorino Romano – sold by the pound (Expiration: 03/11/26)
- Boar’s Head Pecorino Romano Grated – sold by the pound (Expiration: 03/03/26, 03/12/26)
Consumers are urged to remain vigilant regarding these products in their homes and to act accordingly to ensure their safety.
