The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have launched investigations into an E. coli outbreak in several states. The outbreak has been linked to raw cheddar cheese produced by Raw Farm LLC, specifically their Raw Farm Raw Cheddar cheese. As of now, as many as 10 patients have been hospitalized due to the outbreak, with one patient developing kidney failure known as hemolytic uremic syndrome. The outbreak has affected patients in California, Colorado, Utah, and Texas.
The CDC and FDA have determined that the source of the outbreak is likely Raw Farm’s Raw Cheddar cheese. The cheese products, including original flavor and cheddar, as well as jalapeño flavor, were distributed nationwide. The investigation is ongoing, and the FDA has confirmed that no deaths have been reported thus far.
Officials have identified six out of the eight patients interviewed as having consumed the Raw Farm Raw Cheddar cheese prior to falling ill. Due to the investigation, Raw Farm has issued a recall of certain cheese lots currently within their shelf life. The cheese lots were put on sale between October 18, 2023, and January 29, 2024.
E. coli, or Escherichia coli, is a bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains of E. coli are harmless, certain variants can cause gastrointestinal diseases. Symptoms of E. coli infection include stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting for up to seven days after exposure.
The true extent of the outbreak may be greater, as some individuals may have recovered from E. coli infections without receiving medical care or being tested. It can take several weeks to determine if an individual is part of an outbreak, according to CDC officials.
In conclusion, the recent E. coli outbreak linked to Raw Farm Raw Cheddar cheese has resulted in hospitalizations and one case of kidney failure. The FDA and CDC continue to investigate the outbreak, and Raw Farm has issued a recall for certain cheese lots. It is important for individuals who have consumed raw cheddar cheese recently to monitor their health and seek medical attention if symptoms such as stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, or vomiting occur.+
