NRT briefing
Cheddar cheese recalled across several states over dangerous E. coli
Based on reporting by Fox Business.
The Brief
Family Farmstead Dairy, based in Worcester, New York, has recalled a batch of its Raw Mild Cheddar cheese due to potential E. coli contamination, according to an Oct. 15 notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The recall covers cheese with lot code and best-by date 7/22/27, distributed to retailers in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia, and Massachusetts. The company noted the product may have reached additional states through downstream distributors.
The recall was initiated after testing in Maryland detected two strains of E. coli — O26:H11 and O45:H2 — in 8-ounce packages of Family Farmstead A2 Raw Cheddar. These strains can cause diarrhea, including bloody stools. While most healthy adults recover within a week, some may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome, a form of kidney failure most likely to affect young children and the elderly, and can lead to serious kidney damage or death.
No illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported as of the announcement. Consumers who purchased the recalled cheese are urged not to eat it and to throw it away or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
No other Family Farmstead Dairy products are included in the recall. The company apologized for the inconvenience and said it is committed to identifying the cause and taking corrective actions.
NRT commentary
How We See It
This recall is a stark reminder that food safety regulations and oversight serve a vital purpose, protecting families from potentially deadly pathogens like E. coli. The swift action by Maryland regulators and the FDA to identify and publicize the contamination is commendable. It underscores the importance of robust food safety systems in our supply chain, which consumers often take for granted.
However, this incident also highlights the heavy burden that recalls place on small businesses like Family Farmstead Dairy, a family operation that likely prides itself on its products. The financial hit from a recall, coupled with potential reputational damage, can be devastating.
This is a case where regulatory compliance isn't just about avoiding legal trouble—it's about survival. It's a reminder that while government oversight is necessary, it should be implemented in a way that doesn't unnecessarily crush smaller producers who are already committed to quality and safety.
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