California-based Rizo Lopez Foods Recalls Cheese and Dairy Products
Background
California-based Rizo Lopez Foods has issued a recall for several of its cheese and dairy products following a listeria outbreak that has affected people across the country. This outbreak has resulted in two deaths and numerous hospitalizations, prompting federal health officials to investigate the situation and issue consumer advisories.
Recall Notice and Recommendations
The Food and Drug Administration advised consumers to refrain from consuming the recalled brands of cheese, sour cream, and yogurt. It further emphasized the need for individuals or businesses that have purchased these products to clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with them to prevent the spread of listeria contamination.
At-Risk Groups
The FDA has identified pregnant and immunocompromised individuals, as well as newborns and adults over the age of 65, as the most vulnerable to serious illness from listeria infection.
States Affected by Listeria Outbreak
Since 2014, listeria cases related to the outbreak strain have been reported in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington.
Recalled Products
Rizo Lopez Foods is voluntarily recalling cheese, yogurt, and sour cream sold under various brand names, including Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo Bros, Rio Grande, Food City, El Huache, La Ordena, San Carlos, Campesino, Santa Maria, Dos Ranchitos, Casa Cardenas, and 365 Whole Foods Market. Please refer to the official list for a comprehensive view of the recalled products.
About Listeria Infection
Listeria is a foodborne illness caused by consuming food contaminated with the Listeria monocytogenes bacterium. Thirdly, it is the leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States.
Previous Listeria Outbreaks
Aside from the current cheese-related outbreak, previous listeria outbreaks have been linked to deli meats, packaged salads, and enoki mushrooms.
Mild symptoms of listeria can include a fever and vomiting, while severe infection can lead to loss of balance and convulsions, according to the FDA.
