Raw Farm recalls cheese amid E. coli outbreak probe

The Raw Farm cheese recall is underway after a California dairy producer agreed to pull several products linked to an ongoing E. coli outbreak under investigation by the Food and Drug Administration.

The company, based in Fresno, said it would voluntarily recall multiple varieties of raw cheddar cheese, reversing an earlier refusal as health officials continue to examine the source of infections.

Recall follows outbreak investigation

Federal authorities began investigating the outbreak last month after several cases of food poisoning were linked to Raw Farm products.

According to the FDA, at least nine people — including children — have been sickened. Interviews with affected individuals found that most had consumed Raw Farm dairy products, including raw milk and cheddar cheese.

Genetic testing of the bacteria showed the infections are closely related, suggesting a common source.

Company disputes findings but complies

Despite the recall, Raw Farm said it had not detected E. coli in its own product testing and described the action as being taken “under protest.”

The company emphasized that the recall applies only to specific cheddar cheese batches with expiration dates between May and September 2026. No other products are currently affected.

Regulators have the authority to mandate recalls when there is a significant health risk, but companies are typically given the opportunity to comply voluntarily first.

Raw milk debate resurfaces

The outbreak has renewed scrutiny over raw milk products, which are not pasteurized to eliminate harmful bacteria such as E. coli, salmonella and listeria.

Interest in raw dairy has grown in recent years, fueled in part by public figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has supported broader access to unpasteurized products.

However, federal law still prohibits the interstate sale of raw milk for human consumption, while state regulations vary widely.

As the investigation continues, health officials are urging caution, particularly as cases remain under review and the source of contamination is still being confirmed.