A Listeria outbreak linked to Frescolina brand Ricotta Salata by Forever Cheese has sickened 14 people in 11 states and prompted a nationwide recall. The potential contamination was discovered after an illness was reported in connection with eating the cheese.
The cheese was sold to retailers, restaurants and wholesalers in 18 states and the District of Columbia between June 20 and August 9, 2012. Consumers who have this cheese at home should not eat it.
Ricotta Salata is a variation of ricotta cheese that has been pressed and dried. It is most often made with sheep’s milk. The recalled cheese had a production date code of 441202 on the original wheel. It was initially distributed to the following states: CA, CO, FL, GA, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MT, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, VA, WA, and the District of Columbia. Distributors and retailers are being contacted with recall information.
Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogen that causes serious illnesses and death. About 90 percent of those diagnosed with a Listeria infection require hospitalization. Symptoms of a Listeria infection include fever, muscle aches, upset stomach and diarrhea. Those most at risk are young children, senior and pregnant women. Listeria can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth and birth defects. Anyone who has eaten this cheese and has these symptoms should see a health care provider.
A multi-state investigation including state and federal health investigators is underway. The recall and outbreak were announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) this morning.
