Raw Cheese Products Recalled 'Under Protest' Amid FDA E. coli Outbreak Investigation
A California-based dairy producer has initiated a voluntary recall of multiple raw cheese products as federal health authorities continue to investigate an ongoing outbreak of E. coli infections. Raw Farm, located in Fresno, California, announced on Thursday that it is recalling more than half a dozen varieties of its cheddar cheese made from raw milk. The recalled batches, which feature expiration dates ranging from May 2026 to September 2026, were distributed and sold at retailers across the nation, according to an alert issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Outbreak Details and Investigation Timeline
The recall was prompted after health authorities launched an investigation into an E. coli outbreak that was first announced on March 15. The FDA began examining cases of E. coli food poisoning last month among individuals who had reportedly consumed products from Raw Farm. In an update provided last week, the FDA disclosed that it is conducting an inspection of the company's facilities but has not yet identified positive test results for E. coli bacteria in the company's products.
Despite the absence of confirmed contamination, Raw Farm proceeded with the recall, stating it was doing so "under protest" and to establish "a path forward." The company emphasized that this voluntary recall is specifically limited to Raw Farm-brand cheddar cheese and does not include any other products in its lineup.
Recalled Products and Consumer Information
The affected products include various sizes and flavors of raw cheddar cheese, such as original and jalapeno varieties. Below is a detailed list of the recalled batches and their corresponding expiration dates:
- 8 oz Lightly Salted Cheddar Block with batch code 20251027-2 and expiration date 8/23/2026
- 80 oz Lightly Salted Cheddar Block with batch code 20251015-4 and expiration date 8/11/2026
- 16 oz Lightly Salted Cheddar Block with batch code 20251027-4 and expiration date 8/23/2026
- 80 oz Bag of Original Cheddar Shred with batch code 20260205 and expiration date 5/6/2026
- 16 oz Jalapeno Cheddar Block with batch code 20251128-1J and expiration date 9/24/2026
- 8 oz Lightly Salted Cheddar Shred with batch code 20260212 and expiration date 5/13/2026
- 8 oz Jalapeno Cheddar Block with batch code 20251128-2J and expiration date 9/24/2026
Consumers are advised to check their purchases for these specific batch codes and expiration dates and to dispose of or return any affected products immediately.
Public Health Impact and Regulatory Context
The FDA reported last week that nine people, including children, have fallen ill in this expanding outbreak. Of eight individuals interviewed by health officials, seven confirmed consuming Raw Farm-brand products. Detailed case information reveals that two people in 2025 reported drinking Raw Farm milk, while five people in 2026 indicated they had eaten or were served Raw Farm raw cheddar cheese.
Genetic sequencing of E. coli strains from the sick individuals shows that they are all closely related, suggesting that those affected in the outbreak "share a common source of infection," according to the FDA. This finding underscores the potential link to Raw Farm products, despite the lack of positive test results from the company's facilities.
Under U.S. regulations, the FDA possesses the authority to mandate food recalls when there is a reasonable risk of serious injury or death. However, the agency typically provides companies with an opportunity to voluntarily comply before issuing a compulsory order. In this instance, Raw Farm opted for a voluntary recall, albeit under protest.
Rising Popularity of Raw Milk and Regulatory Variations
Interest in and sales of raw milk have been increasing in recent years, driven in part by social media trends and growing support from movements such as Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Make America Healthy Again campaign. Raw milk, which has not undergone pasteurization, lacks the process that eliminates harmful pathogens like E. coli, salmonella, listeria, and campylobacter.
The federal government prohibits the interstate sale of unpasteurized milk for human consumption, but state regulations vary widely. Some states permit retail sales of raw milk in stores, while others restrict sales to farms only. Additional models include cowshares, where individuals pay for milk from specific animals, and allowances for consumption solely by farm owners, employees, or non-paying guests. This patchwork of regulations highlights the complex landscape surrounding raw dairy products and food safety oversight.
As the investigation continues, health officials urge consumers to remain vigilant and follow recall notices to prevent further illnesses. The FDA and Raw Farm are expected to provide updates as more information becomes available regarding the source and scope of the E. coli outbreak.
