Serious Cheese Recall: Potential Listeria Contamination At Kenny's Farmhouse Cheese

A cheese product is being recalled after it was found to potentially contain a dangerous and sometimes deadly bacterium, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said. Kenny's Farmhouse Cheese, based in Austin, Kentucky, is recalling batch 231129 of its St. Jerome cheese after routine testing by the Kentucky Department of Public Health detected the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, the frail or elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

The affected cheese, distributed through wholesale customers, retail storefronts, and the Kenny's Farmhouse Cheese website, comes in two sizes: an 8-ounce wedge and a 15-pound wheel. Both sizes are packaged in clear plastic with a logo sticker and the lot number 231129 on a white label on the side. Consumers are urged to check their cheese for this specific lot number and take the necessary precautions.

Despite no reported illnesses being linked to this recall as of the announcement on Wednesday, the notice firmly urges people not to consume the product. Instead, they should return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or dispose of it safely. The potential health risks associated with Listeria monocytogenes are significant, and it is crucial for anyone who may have purchased the affected cheese to take this warning seriously.

In a recent announcement, Kenny's Farmhouse Cheese confirmed that it had tested 17 other varieties of its cheese, all of which returned negative for the bacteria. The production of St. Jerome cheese has been suspended while the FDA and the company investigate the source of the problem. This proactive approach is essential to ensure consumer safety and prevent further contamination.

It is important to note that Listeria monocytogenes thrives in moist environments, including soil, water, and decaying vegetation. It can survive under refrigerated conditions, making it a persistent threat in food safety. The FDA has noted that previous listeriosis outbreaks in the U.S. have been traced back to various foods, including raw and unpasteurized milk and cheese, ice cream, raw or processed vegetables and fruits, and deli meats.

Symptoms of listeriosis can begin within hours or days after infection. Mild cases may present with symptoms like fever, fatigue, nausea, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to more serious complications, such as headaches, neck stiffness, loss of balance, confusion, and convulsions. Individuals experiencing any of these symptoms should seek medical advice, especially those in high-risk groups, such as pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 1,600 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with listeriosis each year, leading to approximately 260 deaths. This highlights the critical need for public awareness and adherence to food safety guidelines. If you have any concerns regarding the consumption of potentially contaminated products, always err on the side of caution and consult health professionals.

Kenny's Farmhouse Cheese has been a reputable brand, and this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and vigilance in protecting public health. Make sure to stay informed about any recalls and safety notices that may affect the products you consume.