What did FDA do to raw cheddar cheese?

FDA linked raw cheddar to E. coli outbreak

The FDA linked a raw farm brand of cheddar cheese to a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin–producing E. coli illness. Coverage describes an investigation into illnesses associated with raw (unpasteurized) milk cheddar, with health authorities tying cases to specific products from a California farm that makes the cheese.

In response to the outbreak linkage, the cheese maker refused to issue a recall of some products, even as FDA and enforcement activity continued around identified cases. In one update, FDA investigators reported finding evidence consistent with the farm’s products being implicated, while the company’s position remained that the allegations did not match their assessment.

Why it matters

• Raw milk foods can carry pathogens that are killed by pasteurization, increasing outbreak risk.
• E. coli infections can be serious, especially in children, and outbreaks tied to a specific ingredient highlight why sourcing and labeling matter.
• Disputes about recall timing can affect exposure during ongoing investigations.

What public health typically does in this situation

When FDA links food to an outbreak, officials generally focus on:

• Identifying and notifying affected products and distribution channels
• Advising consumers on avoidance and food-safety steps
• Monitoring for additional cases as testing continues

No details were provided here about the number of cases by age group, case counts, or specific product codes beyond references to “seven illnesses” and “multistate” spread in the coverage. Readers should follow FDA and local health department updates for the most current guidance on which products to avoid.