FDA Class II Recall Update On Moore Family Farms Cheddar Cheese Curds

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an update regarding cheddar cheese curd products that were initially recalled on May 23. The agency has now classified the risk level as a Class II recall.

The products in question are the Moore Family Farms Creamery Cheddar Cheese Curds, with a total of 65 bags being recalled. These items come in 1-pound plastic bags that are packaged with white ties. The recall number is F-1376-2024, and the items have a date code of 5/13/2024, with an expiration date of 6/3/2024.

This recall was first initiated by the company on May 23 and received its FDA classification on June 17. The reason for the recall stems from a high coliform and generic E. coli count in the products. This follows a previous recall of various cheese curds by Moore Family Farms Creamery back in July 2023 due to similar contamination issues.

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Newsweek reached out to Moore Family Farms Creamery, located in Maquoketa, Iowa, for comments regarding this situation.

The symptoms of E. coli infections can vary among individuals but commonly include severe stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea. Some patients may also experience a fever. Generally, most patients recover within five to seven days; however, some can develop severe or even life-threatening complications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

According to the CDC, E. coli can be found in various environments, foods, water, and in the intestines of both people and animals. While most E. coli strains are harmless and contribute to a healthy intestinal tract, certain strains can lead to infections such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and sepsis.

E. coli infection can occur through ingesting contaminated food or water or through contact with animals or environments where the bacteria are present. Anyone who has consumed the recalled products and is showing symptoms of an E. coli infection should seek medical attention promptly and inform their healthcare provider about potential food poisoning.

Recalls are critical actions taken by companies to remove potentially harmful products from the market. These actions can be initiated by the company itself, requested by the FDA, or mandated by the FDA under its legal authority.

Currently, there are three levels of recall based on the risk associated with the product:

• A Class I recall indicates a reasonable probability that exposure to the product could lead to serious adverse health consequences or even death.
• A Class II recall is issued when exposure could cause temporary or medically reversible health consequences, or where the likelihood of serious consequences is remote.
• A Class III recall occurs when the use of the product is not likely to result in any adverse health consequences.

In some cases, a product may be withdrawn from the market without a formal recall if the company suspects tampering but lacks evidence of distribution or manufacturing issues. In such cases, the product is not subject to legal action from the FDA.