Over 5,000 lbs. of cheese recalled by FDA due to contamination concerns over 'serious and sometimes fatal' bacteria

[Desmond Milligan 0]

More than 5,000 pounds of cheese products made by Middlefield Original Cheese Co‑op are being voluntarily recalled after the company discovered contamination by potentially deadly bacteria, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

The bacteria in question, Listeria monocytogenes, can cause “serious and sometimes fatal” infections if ingested — especially in young children, pregnant individuals, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.

The recall comes just days after Wegmans grocery stores on the East Coast discovered Listeria contamination in their Medium Camembert Soft Ripened Cheese.

Here’s what you need to know about the Middlefield cheese recall.

Which products were affected?

The recalled cheeses were produced on June 16, June 24 and July 16, 2025, and sold in retail stores across the state of Ohio between July 14 and Aug. 7.

There are five different items to look out for:

• Middlefield Original Cheese Co-op 100% Grass-Fed Pepper Jack Cheese: 8 oz. packages, 5 lb. loaves and 40 lb. loaves with Lot Code 251661

• Copia Collective 100% Grass-Fed Pepper Jack Cheese: 8 oz. packages with Lot Code 251661

• Middlefield Original Cheese Co-op Horseradish Flavored Cheese: 8 oz. packages with Lot Code 2524061

• Middlefield Original Cheese Co-op Monterey Jack Cheese: 8 oz. packages and 5 lb. blocks with Lot Code 251672 and 40 lb. blocks with dates Coded as 7-16-25B

• Farmers Cheese: 8 oz. packages and 5 lb. blocks with Lot Code 251672 and 40 lb. blocks with dates coded as 7-16-25B

Has anyone gotten sick yet?

So far, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall, according to Middlefield.

If exposed, how worried should you be?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Listeria infection is “rare, but serious.” The agency estimates that each year in the U.S., 1,600 people are infected with Listeria and 260 die from the infection.

Even healthy people may experience short-term symptoms like high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea; infections during pregnancy may lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.

Treatment depends on severity. “Most people recover from an intestinal illness without antibiotic treatment,” according to the CDC. “Antibiotics are needed only for patients who are very ill or at risk of becoming very ill.”

What should you do if you bought the recalled product?

Discard it or return it to the place of purchase during normal business hours for a full refund.

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