Update: The FDA have expanded the recall to include additional product name. The following article has been updated to include this information.
Mexicali Cheese Corp. is issuing a voluntary recall on their Quesco Fresco products for possible Listeria contamination. Multiple samples of the product tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. The products recalled are found under the following names:
- Mexicali Queso Fresco Mexicano, Mexican Style Fresh Cheese
- Acatlan Queso Fresco, Fresh Cheese
- Mi Quesito Mexicano, Mexican Cheese
- Quesillo Ecuatoriano, Ecuadorian Style Cheese.
The products recalled are all packaged in a hard 14 oz plastic container with the plant number 36-0128 and a code of 071512. Most, if not all, of the products were distributed within New York City. Any products with one of those titles and the same codes should be discarded.
No illness have been reported from the consumption of the recalled products. Listeria monocytogenenes is the causative bacteria of listeriosis, a very dangerous foodborne illness. It accounts for 20-30% of all food poisoning deaths. Every year over 500 people die from it in the United States. It is not dangerous for healthy individuals but pregnant women, the elderly, and young children are at risk.
Original Press Release: fda.gov
