Clovert Hill Dairy of Mechanicsville, Maryland, has initiated a comprehensive voluntary recall of all its cheese products due to potential listeria contamination, following an expanded public health warning.
Ricotta cheese is shown in a bowl with basil and tomatoes. Clovert Hill Dairy recalled certain soft ricotta cheese products over possible listeria contamination, federal health officials said. (iStock / iStock)
The Maryland Department of Health announced the expanded recall on Sunday, which now includes varieties such as ricotta, cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, and other cheese products.
Health officials have identified eight confirmed listeria infections and one death potentially associated with the contaminated products.
The recall broadens an earlier effort targeting Clovert Hill soft ricotta cheese distributed from May 4 through May 30 in North Carolina, New York, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey and Washington, D.C.
Product packaging includes 10-, 12- and 14-ounce clamshell containers, some marked with plant number 24-128. Products were available through retail stores, bulk distributors and direct-to-consumer sales.
Recalled items may also include bulk 5-gallon and 2-gallon buckets repackaged under alternative brand names such as KESSO, QUESOS LA RICURA, IZALCO, DE MI PUEBLO and RIO LINDO.
A Clover Hill Dairy retail price list shows several cheese varieties sold by the Maryland dairy. State health officials expanded a consumer advisory to all cheese products made by Clover Hill Dairy because of possible listeria contamination. (Maryland Department of Health)
The Maryland health department previously suspended the dairy’s operating license due to the public health risk.
Listeria monocytogenes can cause fever, severe headaches, neck stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. The bacteria poses heightened risks to young children, elderly individuals, pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems. For pregnant women, listeria exposure may result in miscarriage or stillbirth, according to the FDA.
Consumers who purchased the affected products should not consume them and must return items to the point of purchase in original packaging for a full refund.
Clovert Hill Dairy issued a statement expressing regret for the inconvenience caused and committing to resolve the issue promptly once safety can be assured.
