FDA issues urgent warning after deadly listeria outbreak linked to recalled cheeses sold in eastern states

Federal health officials are warning consumers to check their refrigerators after a deadly listeria outbreak was linked to recalled soft cheese products distributed across multiple states. The outbreak has resulted in nine reported illnesses, eight hospitalizations and one death, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Recall involves soft ricotta and requesón cheeses

The recall centers on soft ricotta and requesón cheeses produced by Clover Hill Dairy in Mechanicsville, Maryland. Requesón is a soft, fresh cheese similar to ricotta and is commonly used in Latin American cuisine. Health officials say all varieties of the recalled cheeses are affected, including flavored versions such as jalapeño varieties.

The products were sold in retail containers and larger bulk packages that may have been redistributed or repackaged under other labels. Because of this, consumers may not immediately recognize the recalled products. The FDA advises shoppers to look for manufacturer permit number “24-128” on packaging.

Multiple brands and cheese types may be affected

Officials say the recalled cheeses may have been sold under several brand names, including Clover Hill Dairy, Kesso, Quesos La Ricura, Izalco, De Mi Pueblo and Rio Lindo. The products were distributed in Maryland, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, North Carolina and Washington, D.C., though officials note that additional distribution is possible through secondary distributors.

The FDA recall also includes a variety of hard cheeses, which can be viewed here.

What consumers should do

The FDA and CDC recommend that consumers do not eat any recalled soft ricotta or requesón cheese products and either dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase. Consumers should also thoroughly clean refrigerators, containers and surfaces that may have come into contact with the cheese because listeria can survive and spread in refrigerated environments (the same bacteria that killed several people in 2024).

The investigation remains ongoing, and federal officials say additional products could be identified as testing continues.

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