Family Farmstead Dairy has recalled a single lot of its raw mild cheddar cheese after testing identified two strains of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) in samples, affecting seven states and prompting warnings about severe health risks.
Family Farmstead Dairy of Worcester, New York, announced a recall of its raw mild cheddar cheese on October 15, 2026, after Maryland laboratory testing detected two strains of E. coli in two 8-ounce packages of the product. The affected lot, labeled with a best-by date of July 22, 2027, was distributed to grocery stores in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia, and Massachusetts, with potential additional distribution through downstream channels. No illnesses have been reported to date, but the recall underscores ongoing risks associated with raw milk cheese.
Recall Details and Affected States
The recall targets Family Farmstead Dairy Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese with lot code and best-by date 7/22/27, sold in 8-ounce clear plastic packages featuring green, red, and white labeling. The company emphasized that no other products are affected. Consumers are advised to discard or return the cheese for a refund. The FDA’s announcement highlighted that the contamination was detected through testing, though the exact source of the bacteria remains under investigation.
States impacted include New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia, and Massachusetts. The company noted that the product may have reached other states via distributors, though specific details about the distribution network were not provided in the recall notice. The FDA’s updated alert confirmed the presence of E. coli O26:H11 and O45:H2, both Shiga toxin-producing strains linked to severe gastrointestinal illness.
E. Coli Strains Cause Health Risks
The recalled cheese contains two strains of STEC—O26:H11 and O45:H2—both of which can cause symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to life-threatening complications. The CDC warns that these bacteria can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a form of kidney failure that disproportionately affects young children and the elderly. About 5 to 10 percent of those diagnosed with E. coli infections result in HUS, which can cause permanent kidney damage or death.
While no illnesses have been reported, the recall follows a pattern of raw milk cheese-related outbreaks. In 2026, a recall of raw milk products was linked to 13 cases of E. coli O26:H11, including three children with kidney failure. The FDA’s 21 CFR 1240.61 and 21 CFR Part 133 regulations permit raw milk cheese sales if aged for at least 60 days, but critics argue this does not eliminate all risks.
Consumer Actions and Company Response
Consumers who purchased the affected cheese are urged to check their refrigerators and avoid consumption. The company stated it is investigating the issue and has committed to corrective actions to ensure product safety. We sincerely apologize to our customers, retail partners, and consumers for the inconvenience caused by this recall,
Family Farmstead Dairy said, adding that product quality is an utmost priority.
For questions, customers can contact the company at 607-397-4044 or via email at customerservice@familyfarmsteaddairy.com. The FDA’s recall notice, available here, includes detailed product identification information. Health officials advise individuals who consumed the cheese and experience symptoms such as bloody diarrhea to seek medical attention and mention the recall during evaluation.
Raw Milk Cheese and Regulatory Context
Raw milk cheese, which is not pasteurized, carries a higher risk of bacterial contamination compared to pasteurized alternatives. The FDA recommends choosing pasteurized dairy products to reduce foodborne illness risks. Despite this, raw milk cheese remains legal in many states if aged for 60 days or more. However, the Family Farmstead recall highlights ongoing debates over safety standards, with advocates like food safety attorney Bill Marler urging warning labels on unpasteurized products.
The company’s website, familyfarmsteaddairy.com, does not currently display the recall notice, according to some sources. The incident adds to a series of 2026 recalls involving raw milk products, including a recent recall of ready-to-eat deli-style salads and cream cheeses over Listeria concerns.
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