FDA Upgrades Cheese Recall to Highest Risk Level Over Listeria Contamination
FDA Upgrades Cheese Recall to Highest Risk Level Due to Listeria Contamination
Summary (Updated January 2026): The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has elevated a cheese recall linked to Listeria monocytogenes to a Class I risk—the most serious category. The recall involves multiple grated Pecorino Romano products produced by Ambriola Company and sold nationwide. Consumers are advised to check lot numbers immediately and avoid consuming affected items.
FDA Raises Cheese Recall to Class I: What This Means
The :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} (FDA) announced that a voluntary recall of certain cheese products has been upgraded to a Class I recall, indicating a reasonable probability that consumption could lead to serious health consequences or death.
The recall was initially issued by Ambriola Company in November after routine testing detected the presence of Listeria monocytogenes at its manufacturing facility in West Caldwell, New Jersey. Subsequent evaluation prompted the FDA to elevate the risk classification.
Why a Class I Recall Is Serious
- Represents the highest level of food safety concern
- Indicates a realistic risk of severe illness or death
- Requires immediate consumer awareness and action
Health Risks Associated With Listeria Monocytogenes
Listeria monocytogenes is a harmful bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection. While healthy adults may experience mild symptoms, certain groups face significantly higher risks.
Common Symptoms
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Muscle stiffness
- Nausea and abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
High-Risk Groups
- Pregnant women (risk of miscarriage or stillbirth)
- Older adults
- Young children
- People with weakened immune systems
The FDA urges anyone experiencing symptoms after consuming recalled products to seek medical attention promptly.
Cheese Products Included in the Recall
The recall affects eight grated Pecorino Romano cheese products, sold both directly to consumers and in bulk for food service use. Distribution occurred nationwide between November 3 and November 20.
Consumer-Packaged Products
- Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano (4 oz & 8 oz cups with lids)
Lot Numbers: 1000572472, 1000570734, 1000570735, 1000570736, 1000572482, 1000572483, 1000572485 - Boar’s Head Grated Pecorino Romano (6 oz cups with lids)
Lot Number: 1000572486 - Member’s Mark (Sam’s Club) Pecorino Romano Grated (1.5 lb bags)
Lot Numbers: 1000570107, 1000570766, 1000572513
Bulk / Food Service Products
- Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano (5 lb & 10 lb bags)
Lot Numbers: 1000570725, 1000572476, 1000570724, 1000572475, 1000570726, 1000570727, 1000572477 - Pinna Grated Pecorino Romano (10 lb bags)
Lot Number: 1000572486 - Boar’s Head Pecorino Romano Grated (5 lb bags)
Lot Numbers: 1000570093, 1000570738 - Ambriola Piccante Grated Pecorino Romano (5 lb & 10 lb bags)
Lot Numbers: 1000572981, 1000570737, 1000570092, 1000572487 - Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano (8 oz cups with lids)
Lot Numbers: 1000570750, 1000572499, 1000572514
What Consumers Should Do Right Now
- Do not consume any recalled cheese products.
- Check packaging for matching lot numbers.
- Dispose of the product safely or return it to the place of purchase.
- Clean and sanitize surfaces that may have contacted the cheese.
- Monitor health symptoms and consult a healthcare provider if needed.
Food safety matters. Sharing this information can help protect vulnerable individuals in your community.
Official Source: Information in this article is based on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recall notice. Visit the FDA’s official recalls and safety alerts page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – January 2026
Is the FDA cheese recall dangerous?
Yes. The recall has been classified as Class I, meaning there is a reasonable probability that consuming the affected products could result in serious health consequences.
What should I do if I already ate the recalled cheese?
If you consumed the product and feel unwell—especially if you are in a high-risk group—contact a healthcare professional immediately.
Are all Pecorino Romano cheeses affected?
No. Only specific products and lot numbers listed above are included in this recall.
How can I stay updated on food recalls?
Regularly check official FDA announcements and trusted consumer safety websites.
MaalFreeKaa
Lead Researcher and Editor at MaalFreeKaa, specializing in global consumer rewards and brand launch offers for the USA, UK, and Canada. Since 2008, I have been dedicated to verifying legitimate freebies and international giveaways, providing first-hand proof and manual audits to ensure our community only accesses high-value, safe opportunities from top-tier global brands
