Multistate E. coli O157:H7 outbreak linked to raw milk cheese (Raw Farms) [developing]
Key Questions
What is the E. coli outbreak linked to Raw Farms?
A multistate E. coli O157:H7 outbreak is tied to Raw Farms raw milk cheddar cheese, affecting 9 cases in CA, TX, and FL, mostly kids under 5. There have been 3 hospitalizations and 1 case of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Federal health officials are investigating.
Which Raw Farms products are recalled?
Raw Farms issued a nationwide recall under FDA pressure—'under protest'—for cheddar cheese and raw milk with expiration dates from May to September 2026, totaling 170,000 pounds. Products were sold at Sprouts, H-E-B, Whole Foods, and others, despite negative tests claimed by the company. Check fridges for items like batch 20251027-2.
What states are affected by the Raw Farms E. coli outbreak?
Cases are reported in California, Texas, and Florida, including 2 in San Diego County. Fresno County urges residents to discard the cheese. The outbreak is developing with ongoing federal and state probes, including Texas fridge checks.
How has Raw Farms responded to the recall?
Raw Farms recalled the products 'under protest' after weeks of FDA requests, pushing back amid negative test results. The company faces ongoing fed/state investigation despite their resistance. Public health officials warn against consuming raw dairy due to risks.
What risks are associated with raw milk, as per related studies?
A Swiss study found E. coli, Yersinia, Listeria, and Campylobacter in raw milk from farms. Experts, including doctors, emphasize the dangers of raw milk cheese, especially for E. coli O157:H7 which can cause severe illness like HUS in young children. FDA advises avoiding raw dairy.
9 cases CA/TX/FL kids<5 (3 hosp/1 HUS); nationwide expanded voluntary cheddar/milk recall under FDA pressure/company disputing link despite neg tests/protest (170k lb exp May-Sep'26 e.g. 20251027-2 UPC835204001177 at Sprouts/H-E-B/Whole Foods); TX fridge checks; ongoing fed/state probe; Swiss study reinforces risks. FDA investigation; avoid raw dairy.