Listeria outbreak linked to dairy products

An outbreak of listeria has been linked to a type of cheese sold nationwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

The outbreak has led to a recall of products made by Rizo-López Foods, including cheese, yogurt and sour cream. The company recalled its aged cotija cheese on January 11 after Hawaii state officials found listeria in it, and followed this with a complete recall of cheese and dairy products made in its facility on February 6, along with a temporary stop on production and distribution.

If you currently possess any of these items under the brand names Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo Bros, Rio Grande, Food City, El Huache, La Ordena, San Carlos, Campesino, Santa Maria, Dos Ranchitos, Casa Cardenas or 365 Whole Foods Market, the CDC recommends that you do not eat, sell or serve them.

The products may also be included in foods sold through other brands, such as salad kits, taco kits, burritos, sandwiches and dressings, sauces and dips.

The CDC has confirmed listeria infections in eleven states at this time, including Colorado, but cautions that the products are available nationwide and the true number of infections is likely higher because some people recover without medical care and are not tested.

Of the 26 confirmed cases, 23 patients have been hospitalized and two have died.

Symptoms of listeria infection usually begin within two weeks of eating contaminated food but can be as early as the same day or as late as ten weeks after. Mild symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, tiredness, vomiting and diarrhea.

Severe symptoms can include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions.

Listeria rarely causes serious illness in most people, but is most likely to cause serious illness in pregnant women, newborns, people over the age of 65 and people with weakened immune systems.

For a full list of products known to be affected, visit the FDA website at https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-listeria-monocytogenes-queso-fresco-and-cotija-cheese-february-2024.