Sierra Nevada Cheese Recall Expands: 13 Sickened in E. Coli Outbreak

The FDA issued a nationwide recall of Sierra Nevada Graziers raw milk cheese on September 29 after 13 people across nine states contracted E. coli O26:H11. Eight were hospitalized and three developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious kidney condition that can be fatal. The company halted all production and recalled every lot of four cheese varieties sold nationwide and online.

What cheese is being recalled

Sierra Nevada Cheese Company of Willows, California recalled all Graziers Grass-Fed Raw Medium Cheddar, Raw Sharp Cheddar, Raw Monterey Jack, and Raw Jalapeño Jack. Products were sold in 8-ounce and 16-ounce retail packages and 5-pound loaves to food-service customers. Because raw milk cheese has a long shelf life, contaminated packages may still be in home refrigerators and freezers.

Which states are affected

Illnesses have been reported in California, Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, Tennessee, and Utah. All nine people interviewed by health officials confirmed eating the recalled cheese before becoming sick. More than half of those who fell ill are children age 5 and younger, a group at higher risk for severe E. coli complications.

What E. coli O26:H11 does to the body

The FDA states E. coli O26:H11 causes acute diarrheal illness, often with bloody stools, within a few days of ingestion. Most people recover within a week. However, young children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome, which causes red cell breakdown, low platelet count, and kidney failure. HUS can be fatal. Three of the 13 sickened individuals have already developed this condition.

What to do if you have the recalled cheese

Consumers should not eat or serve the recalled products. Return them to the place of purchase for a refund or dispose of them. Clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that contacted the cheese using hot soapy water or a dishwasher. Anyone who ate the recalled cheese and develops symptoms should contact a health care provider. Sierra Nevada Cheese can be reached at 530-934-8662 during standard business hours for questions.

Investigation status

The FDA and CDC have not identified a specific lot number, production date, or source of contamination. The investigation remains ongoing. Sierra Nevada Cheese Company is cooperating with both agencies and has issued notices on its website and social media informing customers of the voluntary recall.

Final Thoughts

The E. coli outbreak linked to Sierra Nevada Graziers raw milk cheese underscores the risks of unpasteurized dairy products. Check your refrigerator for recalled varieties and return or discard them immediately. Contact a doctor if you develop severe diarrhea or bloody stools after consuming the cheese.

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