The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has announced a recall and quarantine of raw milk produced by Schoch Family Farmstead, Inc., based in Salinas, California, due to contamination with Campylobacter jejuni. Campylobacter jejuni is a bacteria that causes infectious disease in the intestines, resulting in cramping, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain.
Background
The recall and quarantine was initiated after Campylobacter jejuni was detected in a sample tested by CDFA.
Distribution
Product Details
- Product – Schoch Family Farmstead Grade A Raw Milk
- Size – Half gallon (64 oz)
- Packaging – Glass jug
- Best by Date – January 2024
No other lots or products are included in the recall order.
Consumer Action
Consumers in California who have purchased raw milk from Schoch Family Farmstead are advised to check their homes for the recalled item.
Retailers are asked to pull the product immediately from retail sale.
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected product even if it looks or smells safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled products is requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
The recall notice did not say iif the product can be returned to the place of purchase for a refund. At a minimum, consumers are requested to dispose of the impacted product.
Health Risks
The recall notice did not say if there has been any injuries or illness in connection with consumption of the recalled product. Any consumer who is experiencing symptoms of Campylobacter jejuni infection, or general food poisoning symptoms, after coming into contact with the recalled product should contact their medical provider.
Campylobacter jejuni infection can lead to a range of potentially severe symptoms. Typically, infected individuals experience diarrhea (often bloody), fever, and stomach cramps, sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting. These symptoms usually manifest 2 to 5 days after ingestion and can persist for about a week.
While most healthy individuals recover without specific treatment, the infection can pose serious risks to those with compromised immune systems. In rare cases, Campylobacter can lead to complications such as irritable bowel syndrome, temporary paralysis, and arthritis. For immunocompromised individuals, the bacteria may even spread to the bloodstream, resulting in a life-threatening situation.
Commenting on this article, the nation’s leading campylobacter jejuni lawyer said, “Consumption of raw milk has many risks. I urge consumers to consider pasteurized milk instead, which still contains the same amount of nutrients without the risk of introducing dangerous pathogens.”
