Sierra Nevada Graziers Raw Milk Cheese Recall for E. coli O26:H11 Contamination

Immediate food safety alert: Sierra Nevada Cheese Company has voluntarily recalled all Graziers Raw Milk Cheese products nationwide because they may contain Shiga toxin–producing E. coli O26:H11. If any of the cheeses below are in your refrigerator or store inventory, do not eat or sell them; instead, return the products for a full refund or discard them safely.

What Triggered the Sierra Nevada Cheese Recall?

The FDA and CDC are investigating a multistate outbreak linked to Shiga toxin–producing E. coli O26:H11 that has caused 13 confirmed illnesses. Trace-back data implicate Graziers Raw Milk Medium Cheddar as a likely source, leading Sierra Nevada Cheese Company of Willows, California, to recall the entire Graziers Raw Milk line as a precaution. No specific lot codes or expiration dates have been isolated; therefore, every Graziers Raw Milk Cheese package is affected.

Complete List of Recalled Sierra Nevada Graziers Cheeses

All sizes, lots, and “best-by” dates for the following items are included:

Health Risks of Shiga Toxin–Producing E. coli O26:H11

Shiga toxin–producing E. coli (STEC) can cause severe gastrointestinal illness, including bloody diarrhea and vomiting, typically within two to eight days of consumption. Young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals are at increased risk for Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a life-threatening kidney complication. Seek medical care immediately if you experience severe abdominal cramps, fever, or blood in the stool after eating raw milk cheese.

Steps Consumers and Retailers Should Take Now

• Stop use and sale: Do not consume or offer any Graziers Raw Milk Cheese.
• Check product codes: Compare UPCs or item numbers against the table above. When unsure, treat the cheese as recalled.
• Dispose of or return: Place the cheese in a sealed plastic bag before discarding, or take it back to the store for a refund.
• Contact Sierra Nevada Cheese Company: Call (530) 934-8662 (Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. PT) or email recallinfo@sierranevadacheese.com.
• Monitor symptoms: If illness develops, tell your healthcare provider you may have eaten recalled Sierra Nevada Graziers Raw Milk Cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Sierra Nevada Cheese Recall

1. What Sierra Nevada Graziers Raw Milk Cheese products are recalled?

Every variety—Monterey Jack, Jalapeño Jack, Medium Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar, and bulk cheddar blocks—in all sizes, lots, and best-by dates.

2. How do I identify Sierra Nevada Graziers Raw Milk Cheese in my fridge?

Look for the “Graziers Raw Milk” label on the front and match the UPC or item number to the recall table above. When uncertain, assume it is recalled.

3. Are pasteurized Sierra Nevada cheeses included in this recall?

No. Only the raw milk Graziers line is affected. Pasteurized Sierra Nevada Cheese Company products remain safe for consumption.

4. Will cooking Sierra Nevada Graziers Raw Milk Cheese kill the E. coli?

Heating may not reach the internal temperature needed to destroy all STEC bacteria; therefore, the FDA advises discarding or returning the cheese instead of cooking it.

5. How can I get a refund for recalled Sierra Nevada Graziers cheese?

Return the product to the place of purchase. Retailers have been instructed by Sierra Nevada Cheese Company to offer a full refund, even without a receipt.

6. What symptoms indicate I might be sick from Sierra Nevada Graziers Raw Milk Cheese?

Watch for severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and fever within two to eight days of eating the cheese. Seek medical attention and mention the recall.

7. Where can retailers direct questions about the Sierra Nevada cheese recall?

Retailers should contact Sierra Nevada Cheese Company at (530) 934-8662 or email recallinfo@sierranevadacheese.com for product disposition and reimbursement information.