FDA Warns Against Graziers Raw Milk Cheese Due to E. coli Outbreak

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a high-risk warning concerning Graziers raw milk cheese products. This alert follows a multi-state outbreak of E. coli that has led to 13 illnesses and eight hospitalizations. The alert applies to cheese products made by Sierra Nevada Cheese Company, based in California. Varieties include Monterey Jack, jalapeño jack, medium cheddar, and sharp cheddar.

The FDA’s Class I recall, the most severe, indicates that the consumption of these products could result in serious health outcomes or death. Affected products range from retail packaging to larger formats for food-service clients and wholesalers. Distribution covered states such as Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, and others. The company voluntarily initiated the recall on September 28.

The outbreak is linked to Escherichia coli O26, a potent strain that produces Shiga toxin. It can lead to severe illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 13 people across nine states had been affected as of September 25.

Eight of these individuals were hospitalized, and three developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe complication that may cause kidney failure. Fortunately, no deaths have been attributed to this outbreak. The majority affected were children aged 5 or younger. Interviews revealed that all nine infected individuals had consumed Graziers raw milk cheese. Genetic analysis confirmed that related bacteria were found among those affected, suggesting a common contamination source.

This recall occurs amidst various foodborne illness investigations this year, involving other pathogens such as Cyclospora, Salmonella, and Listeria.

Cyclospora Outbreak Sickens Thousands

This year’s most substantial foodborne illness event in the U.S. involved Cyclospora, known to cause cyclosporiasis. The CDC noted 19,883 cases from May 1 to August 31, 2026, a spike from 1,180 cases in 2025. A large outbreak linked to lettuce from central Mexico contributed to over 12,000 cases. The CDC declared this outbreak over on September 11.

Salmonella Outbreaks Prompt Further Recalls

Salmonella has been another focal point of health investigations, with outbreaks tied to jalapeño peppers and raw oysters. A CDC investigation concluded on October 2 reported 488 cases in 34 states linked to imported jalapeño peppers. No deaths, but 65 people required hospitalization.

Salmonella results in diarrhea, fever, and cramps, with severe outcomes possible in vulnerable groups like children and older adults. The CDC has also delved into outbreaks associated with eggs and sprouts, emphasizing the range of products that can harbor contamination.

Listeria Concerns Extend To Cheese

Listeria triggered another significant examination this year, particularly with soft cheese from Clover Hill Dairy in Maryland. The CDC’s final update in August disclosed 15 illnesses across four states linked to Listeria in requesón cheese.

The outbreak spanned March 2023 to July 2026. Investigators identified Listeria in cheese samples and an environmental source, corroborating genetic similarities with infected individuals.

Americans’ Confidence In Food Safety Declines

Recent surveys indicate a decline in Americans’ trust in food safety. A Gallup poll from October 8 shows 65% of adults express some confidence in grocery store food safety, marking a decline from 73% in 2025 and 81% in 2019. Confidence in the government’s oversight is even lower, with 47% expressing trust in 2026, down from past years.

The survey found 73% avoided certain foods following recalls. Conducted September 1-17, it sampled 1,000 adults, with a 4-point margin of error.