Kenny’s Farmhouse Cheese, based in Austin, Kentucky, has initiated a voluntary recall of their St. Jerome cheese due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes (“Listeria”). Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
Routine testing conducted by the Kentucky Department of Public Health detected the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in a sample from the affected batch.
The recalled cheese was distributed through various channels, including wholesale customers, the company’s retail storefront, and their website.
In response to this finding, Kenny’s Farmhouse Chee said they have ceased production of the St. Jerome cheese while they work with the FDA to investigate the source of the contamination.
Product Details
- Product Name – St. Jerome cheese
- Sizes – 8 oz wedge and 15 pound wheel
- Packaging – Clear plastic
- Lot Number – 231129, printed on a white label on the side of the packaging
Consumer Action
Consumers should check to see if they are in possession of the recalled products.
As with all food recalls, the affected product should not be consumed even if it looks or smells safe to eat.
Consumers are advised to dispose of the product immediately or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact the company by phone at 270-434-4124 or by email at [email protected] from Monday through Friday, 8am until 4pm.
Health Risks
No illnesses or adverse reactions in connection with the recalled product have been reported. However, anyone who has consumed the products and is experiencing symptoms of Listeriosis, particularly individuals in high-risk categories, is advised to seek medical care promptly.
Listeriosis is an infection that causes fever, gastrointestinal symptoms, and muscle aches and is caused by the consumption of food contaminated by bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Unlike other strains of bacteria, listeria multiplies in foods stored in the refrigerator. Pasteurization and thorough cooking are the most effective methods of killing the bacteria and preventing infection.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), soft cheese made from pasteurized milk has been the source of Listeria outbreaks in the past. While pasteurizing milk kills the Listeria pathogen, “soft cheeses made from pasteurized milk can still get contaminated during cheese-making.”
Commenting on this story, one national Listeria lawyer said, “Symptoms of listeriosis can present anywhere from the same day to up to 10 weeks after eating contaminated food. Because Listeria can be severely dangerous for pregnant women, potentially causing pregnancy loss, premature birth, or life-threatening infections in babies, I recommend that any pregnant woman who has eaten the recalled cheese to contact their medical provider immediately.”
