REGULATORY · MARKET STRUCTURE · USA
FDA links raw cheddar to multistate E. coli outbreak
Change
The FDA linked raw cheddar made from unpasteurized milk to a multistate Shiga toxin–producing E. coli outbreak and recommended a voluntary removal that Raw Farm declined.
Why it matters
Seven confirmed cases were identified across three states, including two hospitalizations and four cases in children age 3 or younger. Illness onsets ranged from September through February 13, and genetic testing found the isolates to be highly related. Three fully interviewed patients reported eating Raw Farm–branded raw cheddar. State partners are collecting cheese samples for laboratory testing and results are pending; Raw Farm declined the FDA's voluntary removal recommendation and disputed the linkage.
Implications
- · State public health partners are collecting and submitting Raw Farm cheese samples for laboratory testing.
- · The FDA's voluntary removal recommendation remains unimplemented because Raw Farm declined the recall.
- · Confirmed case investigations, including patient interviews, are ongoing while laboratory results are pending.
Who is affected
- · Raw Farm (producer)
- · State public health authorities and laboratories
- · Retailers and distributors of Raw Farm raw cheddar
- · Healthcare providers managing cases
What to watch
- · Results of laboratory testing on state-collected Raw Farm cheese samples
Source
Topics
Law & Public Safety Regulatory Actions Health & Medicine Public Health Agriculture Food & Beverages