RAW FARM Raw Cheddar Recall Update: What Shoppers Need to Check Now

April 21, 2026 — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated its outbreak investigation on April 16, 2026, linking certain RAW FARM raw cheddar cheeses to a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7. If you have RAW FARM raw cheddar in your refrigerator or freezer, now is the time to check the label.

What to Do Right Now

• Do not eat the affected RAW FARM raw cheddar products.
• Either discard them safely in a sealed bag or return them to the place of purchase.
• Clean and sanitize any surfaces, drawers, containers, knives, or graters that may have touched the cheese.
• If you are unsure whether your product is included, err on the side of caution and do not consume it.

Products Included in the Recall

According to the FDA’s April 16 update, the recall involves specific RAW FARM-brand raw cheddar cheeses due to potential contamination with E. coli O157:H7. The products identified include:

• 8 oz block raw cheddar (Original)
• 16 oz block raw cheddar (Original)
• 8 oz block raw cheddar (Jalapeño)
• 16 oz block raw cheddar (Jalapeño)
• 8 oz shredded raw cheddar
• Certain bulk raw cheddar formats as detailed in the FDA notice

The FDA outbreak page lists specific expiration or use-by dates associated with the affected lots. Consumers should carefully compare the expiration date on their package to the dates listed in the official FDA notice to determine whether their product is included.

Distribution is nationwide. As of the latest update, illnesses have been reported in California, Florida, and Texas.

Why This Matters

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially serious bacterium that can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. While many healthy adults recover within a week, certain groups are at higher risk of complications, including young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

In some cases, infection can lead to a serious condition affecting the kidneys. Anyone who has eaten RAW FARM raw cheddar and develops symptoms should contact a healthcare provider and mention the possible exposure.

How to Clean Your Kitchen Safely

If the recalled cheese has been in your refrigerator, take a few extra minutes to sanitize:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after handling the product.
• Clean refrigerator shelves and drawers with hot, soapy water.
• Follow with a sanitizing solution (such as a diluted household bleach solution) on hard surfaces.
• Run cutting boards and utensils through the dishwasher if possible.

E. coli can spread from contaminated food to other items in your kitchen, so careful cleaning is important.

If You’re Not Sure What You Have

Check the brand name first: only RAW FARM raw cheddar cheeses listed in the FDA update are included. Other brands are not part of this recall unless specifically named by regulators.

If the packaging has been discarded and you cannot confirm the product details, do not consume the cheese. When in doubt, throw it out.

Bottom Line for Shoppers

This recall is limited to certain RAW FARM raw cheddar products identified by the FDA in its April 16, 2026 outbreak update. Because distribution was nationwide, consumers across the United States should check their refrigerators and freezers carefully.

Taking a few minutes to verify package size, flavor (original or jalapeño), format (block, shredded, or bulk), and expiration date can help protect your household. Stay alert for symptoms if you believe you may have consumed the product, and consult a healthcare provider with any concerns.

For the most current details, refer to the FDA’s official outbreak investigation and recall listings.

Author: Christine Plocar