Cheddar Cheese Recall Issued Over Potential Listeria Risk
Date: February 19, 2023
Consumers are being urged to check their refrigerators after a recall was issued for certain cheddar cheese products due to the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause serious illness.
The recall affects cheddar cheese distributed by two separate companies and sold in Ontario and across Canada.
Maple Dale Cheese Co. has recalled its one-year-aged cheddar sold in 235-gram packages. The product was distributed in Ontario and carries a best-before date of August 21, 2023. The affected cheese is identified by UPC 623164222356 and VAT numbers 211227 and 211197.
Loblaws Companies Limited has also issued a recall for PEC brand Canadian Cheddar cheese following testing by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). This product was sold nationally in 250-gram packages with a best-before date of August 24, 2024. The affected product has UPC 060383837464.
Health officials stress that Listeria contamination is especially dangerous because contaminated food may appear normal and show no signs of spoilage. Symptoms of illness can include nausea, vomiting, fever, muscle aches, headache, and neck stiffness. In severe cases, infection can be life-threatening, particularly for seniors, pregnant individuals, newborns, and those with weakened immune systems.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled products are advised not to consume them. The products should be safely discarded or returned to the retailer where they were purchased.
The CFIA continues to monitor food safety and encourages the public to stay informed about recalls. Additional recalled products, including various cheese fondues and paneer products, can be found through the agency’s recall listings.
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