Thousands of pounds of cheese recalled after hidden risk found
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Cheese is often a staple in American kitchens, but a new food safety alert has many shoppers double-checking their refrigerators.
A family-owned cooperative in Ohio has issued a major recall after testing revealed the presence of listeria, a harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness.
More than 5,000 pounds of cheese products are being pulled from shelves, covering a range of popular varieties like Pepper Jack, White Cheddar, and Monterey Jack.
While no illnesses have been reported so far, the recall highlights just how vulnerable our food supply can be—even with trusted brands.
For older adults and others in higher-risk groups, staying informed about recalls like this one can be an important step in protecting your health.
The Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op, based in Middlefield, Ohio, has recalled several of its well-known cheeses after listeria was found during routine testing.
The recall includes:
These items were produced on June 16, June 24, and July 16, 2025, and sold between July 14 and August 7, 2025.
They were packaged in 8-ounce sizes as well as larger 5-pound and 40-pound rectangular loaves.
While distribution was primarily in Ohio, Middlefield cheeses are also sold to retailers nationwide and in Canada.
Listeria monocytogenes is a hardy bacteria that can survive in cold conditions like refrigerators.
While healthy adults may only experience mild symptoms, listeria infections (listeriosis) can be very dangerous for older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women.
Symptoms may include high fever, headache, muscle stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
In severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system, causing confusion, convulsions, or even death.
For pregnant women, the risks include miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or serious newborn illness.
The CDC estimates that about 1,600 Americans contract listeria infections each year, with roughly 260 deaths.
Listeria contamination leads to around 47 food recalls annually in the United States.
Unlike some other bacteria, it is not limited to a single food category—vegetables, dairy, deli meats, and ready-to-eat items have all been affected in past recalls.
Just last year, more than 10 million pounds of beef and poultry were recalled due to listeria, and outbreaks have been linked to large brands such as Boar’s Head and Wegmans.
The FDA advises customers not to consume any of the recalled products.
Affected items should be thrown away immediately or returned to the store for a full refund.
If you think you may have eaten the cheese and are experiencing symptoms like fever, muscle aches, or stomach upset, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Listeriosis is treatable with antibiotics, but early treatment is essential for vulnerable groups.
Fortunately, no illnesses have been reported so far in connection with this recall.
Founded in 1956, Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op is a family-run cooperative with strong Amish roots.
The business includes 90 co-op members, with about 98% being Amish.
For nearly 70 years, its cheeses have been valued for their quality and craftsmanship.
That reputation makes this recall especially disappointing for loyal customers across Ohio and beyond.
Food recalls are unsettling, but you can take steps to lower your risk at home:
Food recalls can feel unsettling, but they’re also a reminder of the systems in place to keep consumers safe.
By staying aware of recalls, practicing good food safety habits, and sharing information with friends and family, you can lower your risk while still enjoying the foods you love.
After all, cheese is meant to bring comfort and joy—so let’s keep it that way by making sure what’s on our plates is safe.
Read next: Nationwide Costco recalls: What you need to know about these urgent product safety warnings
Have you ever had to throw out food during a recall? Do you keep track of safety alerts, or are you more likely to find out through the news? Share your stories and tips in the comments—we’d love to know how you keep your kitchen safe while still enjoying your favorite foods!
A family-owned cooperative in Ohio has issued a major recall after testing revealed the presence of listeria, a harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness.
More than 5,000 pounds of cheese products are being pulled from shelves, covering a range of popular varieties like Pepper Jack, White Cheddar, and Monterey Jack.
While no illnesses have been reported so far, the recall highlights just how vulnerable our food supply can be—even with trusted brands.
For older adults and others in higher-risk groups, staying informed about recalls like this one can be an important step in protecting your health.
Staying aware of food recalls helps keep everyday favorites safe to enjoy. Image Source: Pexels / Tabitha Mort.
What’s happening and why it matters
The Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op, based in Middlefield, Ohio, has recalled several of its well-known cheeses after listeria was found during routine testing.
The recall includes:
- 246.5 pounds of 100% Grass-fed Pepper Jack Cheese
- 2.5 pounds of Horseradish Flavored Cheese
- 640 pounds of Monterey Jack Cheese
- 4,544.5 pounds of White Cheddar Cheese
These items were produced on June 16, June 24, and July 16, 2025, and sold between July 14 and August 7, 2025.
They were packaged in 8-ounce sizes as well as larger 5-pound and 40-pound rectangular loaves.
While distribution was primarily in Ohio, Middlefield cheeses are also sold to retailers nationwide and in Canada.
Also read: Cheese lovers beware! FDA recall issued after listeria risk detected
What is listeria, and why should you care?
Listeria monocytogenes is a hardy bacteria that can survive in cold conditions like refrigerators.
While healthy adults may only experience mild symptoms, listeria infections (listeriosis) can be very dangerous for older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women.
Symptoms may include high fever, headache, muscle stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
In severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system, causing confusion, convulsions, or even death.
For pregnant women, the risks include miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or serious newborn illness.
Also read: Is your favorite snack in danger? FDA issues urgent recall warning!
How common is this?
The CDC estimates that about 1,600 Americans contract listeria infections each year, with roughly 260 deaths.
Listeria contamination leads to around 47 food recalls annually in the United States.
Unlike some other bacteria, it is not limited to a single food category—vegetables, dairy, deli meats, and ready-to-eat items have all been affected in past recalls.
Just last year, more than 10 million pounds of beef and poultry were recalled due to listeria, and outbreaks have been linked to large brands such as Boar’s Head and Wegmans.
Some popular cheese varieties have been recalled as a precaution for consumer safety. Image Source: FDA.
Also read: A popular Trader Joe’s snack has been recalled—here’s what to know
What should you do if you have the recalled cheese?
The FDA advises customers not to consume any of the recalled products.
Affected items should be thrown away immediately or returned to the store for a full refund.
If you think you may have eaten the cheese and are experiencing symptoms like fever, muscle aches, or stomach upset, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Listeriosis is treatable with antibiotics, but early treatment is essential for vulnerable groups.
Fortunately, no illnesses have been reported so far in connection with this recall.
Labels from Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op products included in the recent recall. Image Source: FDA.
Also read: Heads up: Walmart issues urgent recall, urges shoppers to dispose of items
A closer look at Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op
Founded in 1956, Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op is a family-run cooperative with strong Amish roots.
The business includes 90 co-op members, with about 98% being Amish.
For nearly 70 years, its cheeses have been valued for their quality and craftsmanship.
That reputation makes this recall especially disappointing for loyal customers across Ohio and beyond.
Packages of Pepper Jack cheese included in the Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op recall. Image Source: FDA.
Also read: This might be in your fridge! Morning must-have faces recall of nearly 490,000 pounds
How to stay safe from listeria and other foodborne illnesses
Food recalls are unsettling, but you can take steps to lower your risk at home:
- Stay informed by signing up for recall alerts from the FDA or USDA.
- Practice good food hygiene by washing hands, utensils, and surfaces regularly.
- Refrigerate promptly and keep your fridge at or below 40°F, cleaning it often.
- Check labels when you’re uncertain and reach out to manufacturers for clarification.
- Be extra cautious if you’re high-risk by avoiding unpasteurized dairy, deli meats, and soft cheeses unless they are clearly labeled as pasteurized.
Food recalls can feel unsettling, but they’re also a reminder of the systems in place to keep consumers safe.
By staying aware of recalls, practicing good food safety habits, and sharing information with friends and family, you can lower your risk while still enjoying the foods you love.
After all, cheese is meant to bring comfort and joy—so let’s keep it that way by making sure what’s on our plates is safe.
Read next: Nationwide Costco recalls: What you need to know about these urgent product safety warnings
Have you ever had to throw out food during a recall? Do you keep track of safety alerts, or are you more likely to find out through the news? Share your stories and tips in the comments—we’d love to know how you keep your kitchen safe while still enjoying your favorite foods!
