A voluntary recall by Westby Cooperative Creamery, based in Westby, Wisconsin, for certain cheese curd products, first announced on September 29, 2024 remains ongoing. The recall was initiated due to contamination with generic E. coli, a bacterium that can cause severe illness in certain populations.
Background
No press release was issued for this recall and no information has been provided as to how the potential for E. coli contamination was found.
This recall is classified as a Class II recall, meaning that the recalled products have a lower chance of causing major injuries or death, however there is still the possibility of serious, adverse events to have irreversible consequences.
Distribution
The affected products were only distributed in Wisconsin.
Product Details
| Product | Size/Packaging | UPC Code | Expiration/Sell by Date Date | Recall Quantity |
| Westby Cheese Curds | 12 oz (340 g) bags | 7 50388-30105 2 | September 26, 2024 | 914 lbs |
| 10 lb bulk boxes | ||||
| Westby Pepper Cheese Curds | 12 oz (340 g) bags |
Consumer Action
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 product is requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
Consumers should thoroughly sanitize any surface or utensils that have come into contact with the impacted product.
The recall notice did not state whether or not the product could be returned to the place of purchase so they should be thrown away immediately.
Health Risks
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), E. coli are bacteria and are found inhabiting diverse environments such as soil, water sources, and the digestive systems of humans and animals. They’re also frequently found in various food items.
The majority of E. coli strains are not harmful and play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut ecosystem by assisting in breaking down the food, contributing to the production of essential vitamins, and acting as a defense mechanism against more dangerous microorganisms.
However, not all E. coli are benign. Certain strains can cause a range of health issues in humans, including gastrointestinal distress resulting in diarrhea, infections of the urinary tract, respiratory ailments like pneumonia, and even severe systemic infections such as sepsis.
Commenting on this article, one national E. coli lawyer said, “As seen with the recent McDonald’s onion E. coli outbreak, an E. coli infection can sometimes lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, a dangerous infection of the kidneys that can be life-threatening. Any consumer with the recalled cheese curds should dispose of them right away.”
