Raw Farm, LLC of Fresno, California, has issued a voluntary recall of multiple varieties of its raw cheddar cheese following an FDA and CDC investigation into a multistate E. coli O157:H7 outbreak. Nine people across California, Florida, and Texas have been sickened — three hospitalized, including one with hemolytic uremic syndrome, a potentially fatal kidney condition. Over half the cases involve children under five. Raw Farm issued the recall under protest, disputing the FDA’s findings, but stated it is proceeding in the interest of public health.
What’s Being Recalled?
The recall covers five Raw Farm-brand raw cheddar cheese products sold at Sprouts Farmers Market, H-E-B, and other retailers. Affected products include 8 oz and 16 oz Raw Cheddar Original Cheese blocks (expiration on or before August 23, 2026), 8 oz and 16 oz Raw Cheddar Jalapeño Cheese blocks (expiration on or before September 24, 2026), 8 oz Raw Cheddar Simply Shredded Cheese bags (expiration on or before May 13, 2026), and 80 oz bulk blocks and shredded bags (expirations on or before August 11 and May 6, 2026). Check the expiration date on your package against the dates above to confirm if your product is affected.
Why Was This Product Recalled?
The FDA and CDC have been investigating an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak since early 2026. Genome sequencing confirmed the patient strains are closely related, indicating a common source. Of eight patients interviewed, seven reported consuming Raw Farm products, and five specifically reported eating Raw Farm raw cheddar cheese. Raw milk is not pasteurized, leaving it vulnerable to E. coli and other pathogens. Raw Farm states no pathogens have been detected in any product samples and disputes being the cause of the outbreak. E. coli O157:H7 can cause severe bloody diarrhea and kidney failure, and can be fatal, particularly in young children.
What Should You Do?
Do not eat, sell, or serve any of the recalled Raw Farm raw cheddar cheese products. Return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Wash any surfaces that may have contacted the cheese with hot soapy water. If you consumed the recalled cheese and develop severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, or bloody stool, contact your healthcare provider immediately. For questions, contact Raw Farm at rawfarmusa.com/contact. Full outbreak investigation details are at fda.gov.
