Food Safety Alert: Raw milk cheese recalled due to E. coli concerns

There is a national recall involving Sierra Nevada Graziers’ raw milk cheeses. There is concern that the products are potentially contaminated with E. coli. The products were distributed to retailers nationwide and online and may have been sold in Mesa County. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating a multistate outbreak of E. coli linked to the products, with at least 13 people reported sick.

Description of recalled products

• Sierra Nevada grass-fed raw milk cheeses
• 8 oz. or 16 oz. packages, as well as 5 lb. loaves
• Varieties include medium cheddar, sharp cheddar, jalapeño jack, and Monterey Jack
• Visit the FDA website for more information about the products.

What consumers should do

• Consumers should check their refrigerators and freezers for the recalled products and throw them out or return them to the store for a refund.
• Contact a doctor if you have concerns after eating the recalled products.
• Consumers can call the FDA at 1-888-INFO-FDA to report concerns.

E. coli description and treatment

• E. coli is a bacteria that can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• Symptoms usually begin 3 to 4 days after being infected, but symptoms can start any time between 1 and 14 days. Symptoms can last up to 2 weeks.
• Some people may have a fever, which usually is not very high (less than 101˚F).
• E. coli can lead to rare but serious infections for children five and younger, older adults, and persons with weakened immune systems.
• Contact your doctor if your diarrhea is persistent, severe, or bloody.

MCPH role in food recalls

There are systems in place to make sure the food people buy and eat is safe. When Mesa County Public Health (MCPH) has been made aware of a product being recalled that could have been distributed in Mesa County, MCPH shares the information so it reaches as many community members as possible.