Reason for the recall
Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op is recalling several cheese products because they could be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious illness, particularly in pregnant women, infants, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
When contacted by Newsweek for comment on the matter, the company had no comment. The company did issue a recall notice, however, to alert customers and distributors to the possible hazard.
Why it matters
Food recalls are not unusual in the United States. Recalls are issued by companies every year due to contamination, undeclared allergens, or packaging problems. Millions of Americans have food allergies or sensitivities, making the recalls all the more important.
As the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines them, the nine most common food allergens are milk, eggs, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, soybeans, shellfish, and fish. When food is contaminated with harmful bacteria, such as Listeria, the risk extends beyond allergies and can cause individuals to become very sick.
Listeria infection can lead to high fevers, headaches, muscle stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and, in severe cases, miscarriage or stillbirth.
Which cheese products are affected?
The recall lists some of the cheese products along with packaging and sell-by dates. They include:
- Organic Gouda (8 oz., sell-by 2/13/2026)
- Shredded Mozzarella/Provolone (5 lb. bags, sell-by 9/3/2025)
- Yellow Cheddar (5 lb. loaves, sell-by 2/13/2026; shredded 5 lb. bags, sell-by 9/3/2025)
- Swiss (5 lb. loaves, sell-by 2/13/2026)
- Pepper Jack and Monterey Jack (5 lb. loaves and shredded bags, sell-by 2/13/2026 or 9/3/2025)
- Sunrise Creamery Dilly Pickle Monterey Jack with lot code 253054 (sell-by 12/30/2025 to 2/16/2026)
The company has recalled products in the past for similar problems, however, in different states and for different products.
Where were the products distributed?
The cheeses in question were distributed from July 7 through August 14, 2025, in Ohio, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Texas. They were distributed through distributors, retail stores, and even cafeterias. Consumers in these states are being requested to check their purchases carefully.
How the issue was discovered
According to the recall notice, Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op testing detected Listeria monocytogenes on cutting equipment and in finished cheese. This is what prompted the company to recall.
As of yet, no illnesses have been associated with these products. But the recall is being conducted as a precaution to protect consumers.
The FDA’s role in recalls
The FDA explained that most recalls in the United States are voluntary. When a company finds there is a safety issue, it usually opts to take the product off the shelves and inform the public. The FDA’s part is to review the recall plan, confirm the health risks, monitor the company’s actions, and make sure the public receives notice.
The FDA publicizes the updates in its Enforcement Report, listing all the recalls and thereasonsn for the recalls. This way, customers and businesses can stay aware of potential dangers.
What customers should do
If you have purchased any of the cheeses that are being recalled, you should stop consumption immediately. The company and FDA suggest returning the products to the store where you purchased them for a full refund.
Further inquiry may be made by calling Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op at 440-632-5567, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern Time.
More information about food recalls may be viewed on the FDA’s website under Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts.
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