West Caldwell, New Jersey – A widespread recall of grated Pecorino Romano cheese has expanded to encompass at least 20 states, triggered by the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacterium. The U.S. Food and Drug Management (FDA) announced on January 6, 2026, that the recall, initially launched on November 25, 2025, is now classified as a Class 1 recall-the most urgent type-indicating a “reasonable probability” of serious health consequences or even death.
cheese Recall Spreads: Listeria Concerns Prompt Action
A multi-state recall of Pecorino Romano cheese is underway due to potential Listeria contamination, impacting numerous brands and retailers.
- the recall affects products from Ambriola,Locatelli,pinna,Boar’s Head,and Sam’s Club.
- The FDA classifies this as a Class 1 recall due to the high risk of serious illness or death.
- Listeria monocytogenes can disproportionately affect young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
- Consumers are advised to discard or return affected products for a full refund.
The ambriola Company, based in West Caldwell, NJ, initiated the recall after routine testing detected the presence of the pathogen.”We take food safety very seriously and immediately alerted stores and distributors to remove the affected products from shelves,” stated Phil marfuggi, chief executive officer of The Ambriola Company.”We are working closely with the FDA and continuing to test our products and facilities to fully understand the situation.”
What are the symptoms of a Listeria infection? symptoms can range from mild fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea to more severe manifestations like headache, stiff neck, confusion, and seizures. Symptoms can appear anywhere from a few hours to up to three months after consuming contaminated food.
The recalled products, sold under various brand names, include specific lot numbers of grated Pecorino Romano cheese:
- Ambriola: 1000572981 1000570737 1000570092 1000572487
Officials emphasize that no other products from Ambriola, locatelli, Pinna, or Boar’s Head are affected by this particular recall.
What Should Consumers Do?
Consumers who have purchased any of the identified products are urged not to consume them. The products should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund. For further data, consumers can contact The Ambriola Company at 1-800-962-8224, Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Eastern Time.
Who is most at risk from Listeria? Very young children, individuals over 65, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to severe illness from Listeria infection.
The FDA continues to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. Staying informed and taking appropriate precautions can help protect public health.
