Les Dépendances is recalling Haute Montagne brand raw milk cheese “Reblochon de Savoie au lait cru” in Canada for possible E. coli O26 contamination. This bacteria is one of the non-O157 bacteria that can cause serious illness and hemolytic uremic syndrome. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this recall. But there is an outbreak in France that is linked with this recalled product.
The recalled product was sold in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec, and may have been sold nationally. It is Haute Montagne Reblochon de Savoie (AOP) au lait cru in 450 gram to 550 gram packages. All lots starting with the number and letters “8CR” are recalled. The UPC number on this cheese is 8 31014 00139 0.
If you have purchased this product, do not eat it. Throw it away in a sealed or double bagged or wrapped container, or take it back to the store where you bought it for a full refund.
Remember that food contaminated with pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli O26 will not look different, will not have a bad smell, and will not have an off taste or different texture. This bacteria can cause serious illness. Symptoms of an E. coli infection include severe and painful abdominal cramps, along with diarrhea that is bloody or watery.
If you ate this cheese and have been experiencing these symptoms, see your doctor. This recall was triggered by a recall in another country. The CFIA is conducting a food safety investigation and may call for the recall of other products if warranted.
