Cheese Recall: Aldi, Market Basket, and More – What You Need to Know
Recent news has been filled with reports of cheese recalls impacting major retailers like Aldi, Market Basket, and others. This article aims to provide you with essential information about the recall, including the affected products, the potential health risks, and what to do if you have purchased any of the recalled cheeses.
Why the Cheese Recall?
The recall is due to a potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a harmful bacterium that can cause serious illness, especially in pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
What Brands and Products Are Affected?
The cheese recall affects various brands and products, including:
- Aldi:
- Earth Grown® Organic Colby Jack Cheese Slices
- Earth Grown® Organic Monterey Jack Cheese Slices
- Market Basket:
- Market Basket® Colby Jack Cheese Slices
- Market Basket® Monterey Jack Cheese Slices
- Other Retailers: Check the FDA website and manufacturer websites for the most up-to-date list of affected products.
Important Note: The recall also applies to cheeses sold under private labels and different brands.
Potential Health Risks of Listeria
Listeria infection, or listeriosis, can cause serious symptoms like:
- Flu-like symptoms: Fever, muscle aches, headache
- Gastrointestinal problems: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- More severe complications: Meningitis, miscarriage, stillbirth
If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming the recalled cheese, contact your doctor immediately.
What Should You Do If You Have Purchased Recalled Cheese?
Do not consume any recalled cheese.
- Check your refrigerator: If you have any of the affected cheeses, do not eat them and discard them immediately.
- Thoroughly clean your refrigerator: Clean all surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled cheese using a solution of bleach and water.
- Contact the retailer: If you purchased the cheese from a specific store, contact them to inform them of the purchase and ask about any potential refund or replacement options.
How to Stay Safe from Listeria
- Always check expiration dates: Throw away any cheese that has passed its expiration date.
- Store cheese properly: Keep cheese refrigerated at 40°F or below.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling cheese.
- Avoid cross-contamination: Keep raw cheese separate from other foods in your refrigerator.
- Cook cheese thoroughly: Always cook cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting listeriosis and ensure the safety of your family.
Keep Updated
Remember to stay updated on the recall by checking the FDA website and the websites of the affected retailers.
Stay vigilant, take precautions, and prioritize your health.