2 min read
Key Points
Graziers has recalled all varieties of its raw milk cheese after the products were linked to E. coli cases in nine states.Federal investigators have not identified which type of cheese or production lot is connected to the outbreak.Of the 13 confirmed cases, eight have resulted in hospitalization, and three people have developed a life-threatening form of kidney failure.
A multistate E. coli outbreak linked to a brand of raw milk cheese has hospitalized eight people so far. Here’s what you should know.
What Products Are Being Recalled? 
Sierra Nevada Cheese Company
The California-based dairy brand Graziers has recalled all of its raw milk cheeses. The impacted products include Monterey Jack, Jalapeño Jack, Medium Cheddar, and Sharp Cheddar in sizes ranging from eight-ounce squares to 40-pound blocks.
Its parent company, Sierra Nevada Cheese Company, voluntarily initiated the recall on September 24 after the FDA contacted the company about its ongoing outbreak investigation and recommended a recall. The brand continues to cooperate with the investigation.
Because the FDA and CDC have not yet identified the specific lot number, production date, or source of the E. coli, Graziers has pulled all of its raw milk cheese from shelves out of an abundance of caution.
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Where Were The Recalled Products Sold?
One recalled product, a 40-pound block of cheddar sold to foodservice providers, was distributed across 13 states and totaled 1,373 pounds. The broader recall, though, includes products distributed nationwide through retailers, distributors, direct customers, and online.
As of September 25, federal agencies say the outbreak spans nine states: California, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Colorado, Michigan, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia. Of the 13 cases tied to the outbreak, eight resulted in hospitalizations. Three people also developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious form of kidney failure. More than half of those sickened are children age five or younger. So far, no deaths have been associated with the outbreak.
What Should I Do If I Have The Affected Product?
If you happen to have any Graziers raw milk cheese in your fridge, the FDA advises disposing of it or returning it to the place of purchase for a refund. The products have a long shelf life, so the agency recommends checking both refrigerators and freezers. To avoid potential cross-contamination, it also recommends cleaning and sanitizing any surfaces or containers the cheese may have touched.
If you have consumed this brand of cheese, watch for symptoms. E. coli infections can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms can begin up to nine days after consuming contaminated food. If you experience any symptoms consistent with an E. coli infection, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
