Family Farmstead Dairy, LLC, of Worcester, NY, is recalling one lot of its Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese over possible contamination with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), strains O26:H11 and O45:H2. The company announced the recall on October 15, 2026, and the FDA posted it the same day. No illnesses have been reported. Protecting your household starts with a quick fridge check.
What's Being Recalled?
The recall covers Family Farmstead Dairy Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese with lot code 7/22/27 and a best-by date of 7/22/27. The sample tested was an 8 oz package. No other Family Farmstead Dairy products are included. The cheese was sold to grocers in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia and Massachusetts. It may also have reached other states through downstream distributors. The source does not name specific retailers, unit counts or prices. The FDA page includes front and back label photos to help you compare your package.
Why Was This Product Recalled?
A sample collected in Maryland found two strains of STEC in two samples of the 8 oz package dated 7/22/27. These strains can cause diarrheal illness, often with bloody stools. Most healthy adults recover within a week. Some people develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a form of kidney failure. HUS is most likely in young children and the elderly, and it can lead to serious kidney damage and even death. The company says it has received no illness reports tied to the product and is committed to finding the cause and taking corrective action. An earlier version of the announcement listed a different strain and fewer states, and the corrected notice is the one reflected here.
What Should You Do?
Do not eat this cheese. Check the package for the 7/22/27 lot code and best-by date. If you have it, throw it away or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Questions can go to the company at (607) 397-4044 or [email protected], 8:30am to 5:00pm Eastern, Monday through Friday. If you or a family member ate the cheese and feel sick, contact a health care provider. The FDA notes it posts company announcements as a public service and does not endorse the product or company.