The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a Class I recall for Graziers raw milk cheese products due to a multi-state E. coli outbreak. This recall is classified as the most serious, indicating a probability of serious health effects or death.
The affected cheese products, produced by Sierra Nevada Cheese Company, include Monterey Jack, jalapeño jack, medium cheddar, and sharp cheddar. These products were distributed across numerous states, including Arizona and California, and sold in both retail and bulk formats.
As of September 25, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 13 E. coli cases across nine states, with eight hospitalizations and three cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome. Genetic analysis indicates the outbreak source is linked to the Graziers cheese, with 9 out of 13 infected individuals having consumed the product.
This recall coincides with several other foodborne illness investigations this year involving Cyclospora, Salmonella, and Listeria. Cyclospora has been linked to a major outbreak from iceberg lettuce resulting in over 12,000 cases. The parasite typically causes intestinal infections through contaminated food or water.
Salmonella outbreaks have also been significant, particularly linked to jalapeño peppers and raw oysters, resulting in 488 illnesses and 65 hospitalizations. Listeria concerns have led to a recall of soft cheeses, affecting 15 people and resulting in one death.
These health concerns have contributed to a decline in public trust in food safety. A Gallup survey showed a drop in confidence in both the safety of grocery store food and the federal government’s ability to regulate food safety.
The survey highlighted that a significant percentage of Americans have avoided certain foods following recalls or advisories, underlining growing skepticism about food safety.