Cheese Recall Alert: E. coli Contamination Risk Prompts Product Withdrawal

According to Newsweek , A Wisconsin creamery has voluntarily recalled a batch of its cheese curds due to potential contamination with generic E. coli, a harmful bacterium that can cause severe illness.

The recall was initiated by Westby Cooperative Creamery on September 29 and remains active. It affects cheese curds sold under the Westby brand across Wisconsin.

Following the discovery, Newsweek reached out to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and the Westby Cooperative Creamery for further comment.

This recall comes in the wake of a recent E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s burgers, which affected 10 states. In October, Newsweek consulted Natalie Stanton, an environmental health officer and founder of The Safety Expert in the UK, to discuss E. coli risks. Stanton explained that while many strains of E. coli are harmless, others can lead to food poisoning, with E. coli O157 being especially dangerous. This strain has been linked to the outbreak, and it can cause severe symptoms, including bloody diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain.

Stanton highlighted that while most people recover within a week or two, vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk. In severe cases, E. coli O157 can cause organ failure, kidney damage, or even death.

The recall has been classified as Class II by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), meaning the product may cause temporary or medically reversible health consequences, though the likelihood of serious adverse effects is low.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled cheese curds are urged to discard them or return them to the store for a full refund. Anyone who experiences symptoms of E. coli infection should seek medical attention promptly.

This recall follows a separate, unrelated soft cheese recall, which was expanded to six states last week.