Listeria Outbreak Tied to Soft Cheese: 1 Dead, Others Ill in Multiple States, FDA Says
Listeria outbreak tied to soft cheese – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that a recent Listeria outbreak linked to soft cheese has resulted in one fatality and multiple illnesses across several states. The contamination originated from a Maryland-based dairy company, Clover Hill Dairy, which is now recalling its products after the bacteria was identified as the cause. This outbreak highlights the potential dangers of soft cheese consumption, particularly for high-risk populations.
Recall and Product Distribution
Clover Hill Dairy, based in Mechanicsville, Maryland, initiated a voluntary recall on June 3, 2023, following federal findings that its soft cheese may be responsible for the Listeria outbreak. The recall includes all varieties of requesón and soft ricotta cheese produced by the company. These items have been sold in retail stores across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, including North Carolina, New York, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C.
The FDA advises consumers to check the manufacturer permit number on the cheese packaging, which is listed as “24-128,” to identify Clover Hill Dairy products. While the cheese may carry different brand names, the FDA emphasizes that all products under this permit number are linked to the Listeria outbreak tied to soft cheese. This precaution is critical for preventing further spread of the bacteria.
Outbreak Investigation and Patient Reports
Health officials confirmed that nine individuals in Maryland, New York, and Virginia have been infected with the same strain of Listeria. The illness onset dates span from March 2023 to May 2026, suggesting a long period of contamination. Among the affected, one person in Maryland succumbed to the infection, according to the FDA’s latest update.
The investigation began when two family members in New York fell ill in May, after consuming Clover Hill’s requesón. Laboratory tests matched the Listeria strain found in the patients to that present in the cheese. Further tests on an unopened 18-pound bucket of the product confirmed the connection, prompting the Maryland Department of Health to suspend Clover Hill’s operating license.
Health Risks and Consumer Precautions
Health experts warn that Listeria poses severe risks, especially to pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, headaches, and stiff necks, with onset times ranging from hours to weeks after ingestion. The FDA stresses that Listeria can survive in refrigerated environments, increasing the likelihood of cross-contamination with other foods.
Consumers are urged to discard the recalled cheese and thoroughly clean any surfaces it has touched. The agency also recommends monitoring updates from the FDA or local health departments, as the Listeria outbreak tied to soft cheese may require additional precautions or recalls. Early detection and treatment are essential for improving outcomes for those at higher risk.
Broader Implications and Prevention Strategies
The Listeria outbreak tied to soft cheese has sparked concerns about food safety in dairy production. While the exact source of contamination remains under review, the incident underscores the importance of strict hygiene protocols in processing environments. The FDA is collaborating with Clover Hill Dairy to analyze its practices and implement corrective measures to prevent future outbreaks.
This case serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in food safety, particularly with products that are often consumed raw. The FDA is actively tracing the outbreak to ensure all affected individuals receive timely medical care and to identify any other contaminated items. Continued consumer awareness and adherence to recall guidelines remain vital in mitigating the spread of Listeria.
