FDA Recall Alert: Family Farmstead Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese Contaminated with E. coli O157:H7
Family Farmstead Dairy has initiated a voluntary recall of one specific lot of its Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese after routine state testing detected Shiga toxin–producing E. coli O157:H7. The affected cheese was distributed in New York and New Jersey retail locations. Do not consume the product—return it to the store or discard it immediately to avoid potential illness.
Recall Details: Affected Family Farmstead Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese Lot
- Product name: Family Farmstead Dairy Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese
- Lot code: 7/22/27
- Best-by date: 7/22/27
- Package size: 8-oz clear plastic pouch with green, red, and white labels (front & back)
- States shipped: New York (NY) and New Jersey (NJ)
- UPC: Not declared on FDA notice
Source
Potential Health Risks from E. coli O157:H7
E. coli O157:H7 infection can lead to severe, sometimes bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps within 2–8 days of exposure. In rare cases—especially for children under 5, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems—infection may progress to Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a serious kidney condition that can be fatal.
Consumer Actions: How to Handle the Recalled Cheese
- Locate the lot code 7/22/27 and best-by date 7/22/27 on the back label.
- Do not taste or consume the product, even if it looks or smells normal.
- Throw it away in a sealed container or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- Clean and sanitize refrigerators, counters, utensils, or cutting boards that may have contacted the cheese.
- Seek medical advice if you experience symptoms of E. coli infection such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Detection: How the Contamination Was Discovered
During routine surveillance, the Maryland Laboratory for Food Monitoring (LFFM) identified two strains of Shiga toxin–producing E. coli in samples from lot 7/22/27. Family Farmstead Dairy promptly initiated the recall in coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Refund Process & Contact Details
Consumers with questions or who wish to arrange a refund can reach Family Farmstead Dairy via:
- Phone: (607) 397-4044 (Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. ET)
- Email: customerservice@familyfarmsteaddairy.com
Product Images Released by FDA
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. Which Family Farmstead Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese lot is recalled?
- The recall applies only to lot code 7/22/27 with a best-by date of 7/22/27.
- 2. Why is Family Farmstead Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese being pulled from shelves?
- Routine state testing detected E. coli O157:H7, a harmful bacterium that can cause serious foodborne illness.
- 3. How can I identify the recalled Family Farmstead Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese?
- Look for an 8-oz clear plastic package featuring green, red, and white labels, lot code 7/22/27, and best-by 7/22/27.
- 4. Have any illnesses been linked to Family Farmstead Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese?
- No illnesses have been reported as of October 15, 2026.
- 5. Can cooking or freezing Family Farmstead Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese make it safe?
- No. E. coli may survive cold temperatures, and the cheese’s density makes thorough heating difficult. Discard or return the product instead.
- 6. Will stores refund me for Family Farmstead Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese if I lost the receipt?
- Yes. Retailers participating in the recall should provide a full refund even without a receipt.