Stay Safe: Important Advisory on Raw Farm Cheddar Cheese and E. coli Concerns
E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Raw Farm Cheddar Cheese Products
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) has confirmed two infections associated with Raw Farm-brand raw cheddar cheese products amid an ongoing E. coli outbreak. Health officials are urging the public to avoid these products as investigations unfold.
On Tuesday, the LACDPH issued a warning regarding two specific items from the California-based company: original block cheese and original shredded cheese. This caution follows local and state laboratory investigations that suggest a connection to the outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC).
"Epidemiologic and laboratory investigation indicates a strong link between the illnesses and RAW FARM-brand raw cheddar cheese products," the LACDPH noted. "Whole genome sequencing of samples from cases confirms that the E. coli strains are closely related, supporting a common source of infection."
E. coli bacteria can be transmitted through food or person-to-person contact, leading to symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea (which may be bloody, particularly in the case of STEC), vomiting, and fever. In severe cases, infection could result in life-threatening complications, including kidney failure and chronic kidney disease.
Symptoms typically manifest within three to four days after exposure, with most individuals recovering within five to seven days without requiring treatment. However, vulnerable populations—including children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems—are at heightened risk for severe illness.
As of March 14, the LACDPH reported a total of seven confirmed cases linked to these products across three states, with five cases in California and two specifically in Los Angeles County. The last reported illness onset occurred on February 13, resulting in two hospitalizations; however, no fatalities have been recorded. Notably, four of the seven cases involve children aged three years or younger, as reported by NBC News.
In response to the outbreak, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has provided guidance for consumers, retailers, and food service providers regarding the Raw Farm products. Although the FDA has recommended that RAW FARM, LLC voluntarily withdraw its raw cheese products from the market, the company has chosen to decline this recommendation.
With public safety in mind, health officials advise individuals to refrain from consuming or serving Raw Farm Raw Cheddar products. Those in possession of these items are urged to dispose of them or return them to the point of purchase. It is recommended to thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces, utensils, or containers that may have come into contact with the cheese to prevent cross-contamination, following the FDA’s safe food handling guidelines.
In a statement, Raw Farm has expressed dissent regarding the findings from the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, asserting, "We 100% disagree with the FDA’s false ‘possible link,’ and extreme allegations."
