A major cheese recall has been issued in the United States after testing revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. Several products from Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op are affected, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified it as a high-risk situation.
What is listeria and why is it dangerous?
Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause a serious infection called listeriosis. You may not always know you have it right away because the early symptoms can feel like any other foodborne illness. According to the FDA, healthy people may only experience short-term issues such as:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
However, listeria is especially dangerous for certain groups. Pregnant women risk miscarriages or stillbirths, and it can also be life-threatening for newborns, older adults, and anyone with a weakened immune system.
Mary O’Riordan, professor of microbiology at the University of Michigan Medical School, explained: “Listeria has an unusual capacity to grow at refrigerated temperatures. Although the bacterium can contaminate many types of food, cheeses or deli meats that are kept in cold storage for long periods in stores or at home are a place where listeria can keep growing.”
Which cheese products are being recalled?
The affected products were produced on May 30 and August 13 and distributed between July 7 and August 14 in Ohio, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Texas. They were sold through distributors, dining halls, and retail stores.
Here is the list of recalled products:
- Sunrise Creamery Dilly Pickle Monterey Jack Cheese with Pickles:
- 6 oz. package (lot code: 253054) – sell-by dates: 1/7/26, 1/11/26, 2/16/26
- 1.25 lb. package (lot code: 253054) – sell-by date: 12/30/25
- 6 oz. package (lot code: 253054) – sell-by dates: 1/7/26, 1/11/26, 2/16/26
- Middlefield Organic Gouda Cheese – 8 oz. packages – sell-by date: 2/13/26
- Middlefield Shredded Mozzarella/Provolone Cheese – 5 lb. bags – sell-by date: 9/3/25
- Middlefield Yellow Cheddar Cheese (Smoked Cheddar and Mild Cheddar) – 5 lb. loaves – sell-by date: 2/13/26
- Middlefield Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 5 lb. bags – sell-by date: 9/3/25
- Middlefield Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – 5 lb. bags – sell-by date: 9/3/25
- Middlefield Original Swiss Cheese – 5 lb. loaves – sell-by date: 2/13/26
- Middlefield Pepper Jack Cheese – 5 lb. loaves and 5 lb. shredded bags – sell-by date: 2/13/26 and 9/3/25
- Middlefield Monterey Jack Cheese – 5 lb. loaves and 5 lb. shredded bags – sell-by date: 2/13/26 and 9/3/25
The recall was triggered after routine testing found listeria in both finished cheese products and on cutting equipment.
What should you do if you bought recalled cheese?
If you purchased any of the recalled products, the FDA advises that you do not eat them. Instead, throw them away immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
The FDA also recommends cleaning and sanitizing any surfaces, containers, or utensils that may have touched the recalled cheese. This is because listeria can survive and spread easily, even in cold storage.
Haley F. Oliver, a professor of food science at Purdue University, warned: “Symptoms vary among people but can include fever, flu-like symptoms, headache, stiff neck, confusion and loss of balance.” If you experience any of these after eating recalled cheese, you should contact your doctor.
What happens next in the cheese recall?
The FDA has listed this recall as ongoing. Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op is cooperating with the investigation, and so far, no illnesses have been reported as of September 8.
Still, because this is a Class I recall—the FDA’s highest level—it means there is a reasonable chance of serious illness or even death if contaminated products are consumed. That is why you should double-check your fridge and freezer to make sure none of these items are sitting there.
