Blue Cheese Recalled after Testing Positive for Listeria

In February, two blue cheese products tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, causing the company to recall products sold between November of last year and February of this year. These products were distributed to wholesalers, retail stores, and restaurants nationwide. The company has voluntarily halted production while working with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to determine the source of the Listeria. So far, no confirmed illnesses have resulted from the contaminated products.

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium that has been found in at least 37 mammalian species, both domestic and feral, as well as at least 17 species of birds and possibly some species of fish and shellfish. It has been isolated from soil, silage and other environmental sources. The microorganism is hardy and resists the effects of freezing, drying and heat remarkably well. Listeria monocytogenes can also lead to Listeriosis, a rare but serious illness caused by eating foods contained with the bacteria. Symptoms can include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. In pregnant women, Listeria can cause miscarriages and stillbirths.

“Listeria has been associated with a variety of foods including everything from milk and cheese to fruits, vegetables and meats,” said Joseph Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “At EMSL, we use advanced testing techniques to identify Listeria and other foodborne pathogens to help prevent contaminated foods from reaching the public. We also offer services to help identify the source of an outbreak if one has already occurred.”

EMSL Analytical, Inc. has sponsored a video about Listeria monocytogenes that can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXQOwCfZQek&feature=youtu.be.

To learn more about testing for listeria and other food testing services, please visit www.FoodTestingLab.com or www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental, indoor air quality, consumer product and materials testing services and products for professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies. 

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail