DALLAS, TEXAS – A nationwide recall on dairy products has been issued by Rizo-López Foods Inc. after being identified as the source of a listeria outbreak. The outbreak has led to 23 hospitalizations and two deaths. The affected products include popular snacks like queso fresco and Cotija cheese, as well as over 60 other dairy items sold under various brand names, which were distributed throughout the United States.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned consumers not to consume these recalled products and to immediately dispose of them if found in their refrigerators or freezers. The CDC also emphasized the importance of cleaning the refrigerator and any surfaces that may have come into contact with the products, as listeria can survive and spread.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause serious and potentially fatal infections, particularly in young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Pregnant individuals are also at risk, as the infection can lead to miscarriages and stillbirths. Even healthy individuals may experience short-term symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, nausea, stomachache, or diarrhea.
The source of the current outbreak was identified as certain dairy products manufactured by Rizo-López Foods Inc., including queso fresco and Cotija cheese. This revelation came after previous recalls related to listeria in early January of aged Cotija cheese by the same company, suggesting a pattern of issues.
The CDC is investigating the outbreak in collaboration with the US Food and Drug Administration, and they suspect that the actual scale of the outbreak may be larger than reported, as not all cases are tested for listeria. If consumers who have consumed the recalled dairy products experience any symptoms, they are urged to contact their healthcare provider immediately.
This recent incident marks the third time the CDC has investigated a listeria outbreak associated with Rizo-López Foods Inc., highlighting ongoing concerns about food safety and the need for rigorous oversight and preventive measures in the dairy industry.