Listeria Contamination in Cheese Prompts Urgent FDA Warning

A major cheese recall has been issued by a Pennsylvania-based food manufacturer, Savencia Cheese, due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released an urgent warning to consumers about this recall, to warn of the serious risks associated with this contamination.

The Recall Details

Savencia Cheese has initiated a voluntary recall of several cheese products after routine inspections revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes on processing equipment at their facility.

While testing of finished products has not detected any contaminated items, the company has decided to take precautionary measures to keep their customers safe.

The recalled products include:

- Empium Selectionrie, 12/oz Brie

- Supreme 7, /7

- Lane Vierie, 6/oz

- La Bonne Vie Camembert

- 12/8oz Industrial Brie

- Marketbasket Brie 6/8oz

All affected products carry a best-by date of December 24, 2024. The FDA has stated that these items were distributed in limited regions within the United States. Retailers who received these products have been notified of the potential contamination and are currently removing the items from their shelves.

Understanding Listeria Monocytogenes

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious foodborne illness. Michelle Anstey, a food safety specialist from the National Sanitation Foundation, explains that Listeria poses significant risks as it can persist in refrigeration and freezing conditions.

Contaminated foods may not show any noticeable changes in appearance, smell, or taste, making it particularly dangerous for anyone eating it.

The bacteria can spread through human contact and poor sanitation, which only emphasizes the importance of handling food properly and good hygiene.

Health Risks and Symptoms of Listeria

Listeriosis can be particularly dangerous for certain groups of people. While most healthy people may only experience short-term symptoms, the infection can be severe or even deadly for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of listeriosis may include:

- High fever

- Severe headache

- Stiffness

- Nausea

- Abdominal pain

- Diarrhea

These symptoms can manifest days or weeks after exposure. In more serious cases, people may experience headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, and seizures, which require immediate medical attention.

Pregnant women are at particular risk, as Listeria infection can lead to miscarriages and stillbirths.

Precautionary Measures

As of the FDA's announcement on November 4, there have been no verified reports of health issues related to this recall. However, anyone who has purchased the affected Savencia Cheese products are strongly advised to take precautions.

1. Do not eat the recalled products.

2. Return the items to the place of purchase for a full refund.

3. If you have eaten these products and are experiencing symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

For any questions regarding the recall, customers can contact Savencia Cheese Customer Relations at 800-274-6455 or via email at sc.customer.service@savencia.com.

The Broader Context of Food Recalls

This Savencia Cheese recall is not an isolated incident in the food industry. In recent months, there have been several other serious cheese recalls caused by Listeria:

1. In July 2024, Kenny's Farmhouse Cheese of Austin, Kentucky, recalled their St. Jerome cheese (batch 231129) due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recall affected both 8-ounce wedges and 15-pound wheels of the cheese.

2. In February 2024, Raw Farm LLC initiated a recall of their Raw Cheddar Cheese due to potential contamination with E. Coli 0157:H7. However, this recall was later rescinded on February 26, 2024.

3. In February 2024, Rizo Lopez Foods Inc. voluntarily recalled all sell-by dates of their dairy products, including cheese, yogurt, and sour cream. This recall was linked to a multi-state outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections associated with queso fresco and cotija cheeses.

FDA's Role in Food Safety

The FDA plays an important role in protecting public health by regulating the safety of food products. In addition to issuing recalls and safety alerts, the FDA conducts investigations, inspections, and collaborates with other health agencies to prevent and respond to foodborne illness outbreaks.

For instance, in the case of the Rizo Lopez Foods Inc. recall, the FDA, in collaboration with the CDC and state and local partners, conducted a thorough investigation of the multi-year, multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections. This investigation led to the identification of the source and the subsequent recall of the contaminated products.

Food Safety Practices

While regulations and food manufacturers hold the main responsibilities for food safety, you can also play a crucial role in your health.

Here are some key practices for you to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses:

1. Stay informed about food recalls and safety alerts.

2. Check refrigerators and freezers for recalled products and dispose of them properly.

3. Clean and sanitize surfaces and containers that may have come into contact with recalled products.

4. Practice proper food handling and storage techniques.

5. Be aware of the symptoms of foodborne illnesses and seek medical attention if necessary.