Soft Cheese Recalled in WA After Being Linked to 3 Listeria Cases

A Washington state company is recalling soft cheese products after being linked to 3 cases of Listeria monocytogenes infection. One of those cases was a death.

There have been a number of Listeria issues related to soft cheeses, especially in smaller companies who have entered into the cheese market. In this case, the company was started in the year 2000 (translated Website) and appears to have grown over time. With increasing popularity of Farmers' Markets, food entrepreneurs have found a entry channel to sell products, including soft cheeses. However, as with this case, careful attention to risk control must be made.



FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm430730.htm
Queseria Bendita LLC Recalls Fresh Cheeses and Sour Cream Because of Possible Health Risk

Contact: Consumer:  Sandra Aquilar 509-961-8949

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — January 16, 2015 — Queseria Bendita LLC of Yakima, Washington is recalling all lots of Panela, Queso Fresco, Requeson, Cotija fresh soft cheese products and Sour Cream to include those with best by dates up to 4/16/2015 because of a potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Panela, Queso Fresco, Requeson, Cotija fresh soft cheese products and Sour Cream were distributed to Hispanic grocery stores in Washington and Oregon and the firm also sold products from its on-site store in Yakima, Washington.

The recalled products are packaged with clear plastic wrapper or plastic tub, and are stamp coded with the best by date up to 4/16/2015. The products are refrigerated and have the shelf life of up to 90 days.

Recall List

Up to date, there are a total of three (3) cases of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to consumption of soft cheese produced by Queseria Bendita, including two hospitalizations and one death.

The recall was the result of the investigation and samples collection by the Food and Drug Administration. The company has currently agreed to cease the production and distribution of all products.

This recall is being made with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Consumers and retailers are advised to remove recalled products off the store shelves and destroy. Consumers with questions can call the firm at 509-961-8949 between 8 am-4 pm PST.