Raw Cheese Recalled Amid Investigation of Related E. Coli Outbreak

### Raw Farms Issues Cheese Recall Amid Ongoing E. Coli Investigation

Raw Farms has initiated a voluntary recall of its raw cheddar cheese products as part of an ongoing investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) into an E. coli outbreak. The decision to recall the products was announced on April 2, 2026, following reports linking the cheese to a rising number of illnesses.

According to the CDC, consumers are strongly advised against purchasing, consuming, or selling any of the recalled cheese products while investigations are underway. The agency has also recommended thorough cleaning of any surfaces or items that may have come into contact with the recalled cheeses, using hot soapy water or a dishwasher. Those who may have purchased these products are urged to discard them to reduce health risks.

The E. coli outbreak associated with Raw Farms’ cheese has reportedly sickened nine individuals, with a significant proportion being children under the age of five. The CDC’s guidance particularly highlights the vulnerability of young children to complications from raw dairy products, suggesting that consumers opt for pasteurised milk and dairy alternatives to help avoid potential health risks.

The specific products recalled include raw cheddar cheese sold in both 8-ounce and 16-ounce blocks of original flavour, with expiration dates up to August 23, 2026, along with jalapeño-flavoured blocks set to expire on or before September 24, 2026. Additionally, there is an 8-ounce bag of shredded raw cheddar cheese and bulk products that are affected by this recall.

Batch numbers of the recalled cheeses include, but are not limited to, 20251027-2, 20251015-4, among others, and the company has cautioned consumers against consuming any batches produced prior to the specified expiration dates. The FDA’s involvement aims to not only determine the necessity for further downstream recalls but also to conduct analyses on the samples collected during their ongoing investigation.

As investigations continue, the FDA has reported that while they are analysing samples, no positive results have surfaced just yet. An FDA spokesperson confirmed that updates regarding the investigation would be made available through official channels.

In a statement, Raw Farms expressed disagreement with the epidemiological links cited by the FDA, indicating that the recall was performed “under protest” but as a necessary measure moving forward. The company has maintained that its products, which are neither pasteurised nor thermalised, qualify as “truly raw” cheese.

The current outbreak spans across several states, including California, Florida, and Texas, with reports of illness correlating strongly with the consumption of Raw Farms products. The CDC has noted three hospitalisations due to E. coli infection, although fortunately, there have been no reported deaths. One individual required hospitalisation due to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a potentially severe complication arising from E. coli infections.

E. coli infections generally manifest through symptoms such as severe abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, and vomiting, with most patients recovering within a week. However, as highlighted by the CDC, some can experience serious health issues resulting from the infection, including kidney failure or long-term neurological complications.

As the investigation progresses, the FDA and CDC are collaborating to monitor the situation closely and to inform the public of any vital developments related to the outbreak. Consumers are encouraged to stay updated through official information releases, especially if they have purchased any of the recalled Raw Farms products.

For consumers who may have queries or concerns about their health regarding this industry-wide issue, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms associated with E. coli infections.