Major Recall of Walmart Cottage Cheese Across 24 States Due to Pasteurization Failure
In a significant food safety alert, Saputo Cheese USA Inc. has issued a voluntary recall for multiple varieties of cottage cheese sold under the Great Value label at Walmart stores. The recall, announced on Tuesday and subsequently posted on the FDA website, affects products distributed across 24 states, raising concerns over potential health risks linked to incomplete pasteurization.
Details of the Recalled Products and Distribution
The recall specifically targets three different fat content versions of Great Value Fat Free Small Curd Cottage Cheese: the 0% Milkfat, 2% Milkfat, and 4% Milkfat minimum. These products come in 24-ounce white tubs with white lids. Additionally, the 4% Milkfat variety includes recalled 16-ounce and 3-pound tubs. All affected items were shipped to Walmart stores and distribution centers between February 17 and February 20, 2026.
The states impacted by this recall are: Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
Health Risks and Consumer Guidance
While Saputo has confirmed no reported illnesses or hospitalizations to date, the company emphasized that consuming products not fully pasteurized can pose a significant health risk. This is particularly true for young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, who are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses.
Consumers are urged to check the "Best Buy" dates and UPC codes on the sides of the containers. The specific details are as follows:
- 0% Milkfat tubs (UPC 078742373393): Best if Used by APR-01-26 and APR-03-26.
- 2% Milkfat tubs (UPC 078742116730): Best if Used by APR-01-26, APR-02-26, and APR-03-26.
- 4% Milkfat 24-ounce tubs (UPC 078742372365): Best if Used by APR-03-26.
- 4% Milkfat 16-ounce tubs (UPC 078742372358): Best if Used by APR-02-26.
- 4% Milkfat 3-pound tubs (UPC 078742147970): Best if Used by APR-01-26 and APR-02-26.
Anyone who has purchased these products should immediately dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Do not consume the recalled cottage cheese, as it may contain unpasteurized dairy ingredients that could lead to serious health complications.
Cause of the Recall and Company Response
The issue was identified during routine pasteurizer troubleshooting exercises conducted by Saputo. The company stated that the impacted pasteurizer has since been restored to normal function, verified, and sealed by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Importantly, no other products from the facility were affected by this pasteurization failure.
Saputo's proactive recall underscores the critical importance of adhering to state regulatory standards for food safety. The company has assured consumers that it is taking all necessary steps to prevent similar incidents in the future, while also cooperating fully with regulatory authorities to ensure public health protection.
