Listeria Outbreak Spurs Recall of Queso Fresco Cheeses

MONDAY, Feb. 22, 2021 (HealthDay News) — All Queso Fresco cheeses made by El Abuelito Cheese Inc. have been recalled after being linked to a Listeria outbreak in four states, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said.

There have been seven illnesses so far reported, with four in Maryland, one in Connecticut, one in New York, and one in Virginia. All seven patients were hospitalized.

The recall covers all Queso Fresco products — including El Abuelito, Rio Grande, and Rio Lindo brand queso frescos — that have “sell by” dates through 03/28/21 and were distributed in Connecticut, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. A full list of the recalled products can be found here.

Consumers, restaurants, and retailers should not eat, sell, or serve the recalled products, the FDA said. Consumers should be especially vigilant about cleaning and sanitizing any surfaces and containers that may have come in contact with the recalled cheeses, the agency advised. Listeria can survive in refrigerated temperatures and easily spreads to other foods and surfaces.

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