Urgent: Borden Cheese Recall – Puerto Rico Supply Remains Safe, FDA Confirms
Good news for cheese lovers in Puerto Rico! Despite a massive recall of over 1 million bags of grated cheese across the United States and the island, Puerto Rico Supplies Group has confirmed that Borden cheeses sold locally are not affected. This breaking news offers reassurance to consumers amidst growing concerns about potential metallic fragments in popular cheese products. This article is optimized for Google News and SEO to provide you with the fastest, most accurate information.
What You Need to Know About the National Cheese Recall
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on December 1st the recall of a significant quantity of grated cheese due to the possible presence of metallic fragments. The recall, classified as Class II (meaning consumption could cause temporary, reversible effects, though serious injury is unlikely), impacts products manufactured by Great Lakes Cheese Co. in Ohio and distributed across 31 states, including Puerto Rico. However, a crucial distinction has been made regarding the supply chain serving the island.
Puerto Rico’s Borden Cheese is Safe: A Separate Production Line
Puerto Rico Supplies Group, the distributor for Borden cheeses on the island, swiftly clarified that the products sold in Puerto Rico originate from a different manufacturing plant than the one involved in the FDA recall. “The availability of Borden Puerto Rico products remains stable and without interruptions,” the company stated. “Its operations and supply have not been affected by the event that recently occurred at the Great Lakes plant, which mainly manufactures private brands, and Borden USA.” This is a vital piece of information for Puerto Rican consumers who can continue to enjoy their favorite Borden cheeses with confidence.
Which Cheese Brands Are Affected? A Detailed List
The recall encompasses a wide range of brands and product types. Here’s a breakdown of the affected products, based on FDA information:
- Borden – Shredded, 8 oz. (UPC 5300007162) & Thick Cut, 8 oz. (UPC 5300007170)
- Econo – Shredded, 8 oz. (UPC 893800294)
- Great Value – Various sizes of Finely Shredded & Shredded (multiple UPCs – see FDA website for complete list)
- Great Value Italian Style – Finely Shredded & Shredded (multiple UPCs – see FDA website for complete list)
- Happy Farms by Aldi – Italian Style Mix, 8 oz.
- Target Good & Gather – Mozzarella & Parmesan, 8 oz.
- Food Club – Finely Grated Pizza-Style Four-Cheese Blend, 117 boxes
The products have sales dates ranging from January to the end of March 2026. The FDA’s recall notice provides a comprehensive list; consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and pantries carefully.
States Impacted by the Recall
Beyond Puerto Rico, the affected cheese was sold in: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
What Should Consumers Do?
If you have any of the recalled products, the FDA advises you to do not consume them. Return the cheese to the place of purchase for a refund, or discard it properly. Prioritizing food safety is always the best course of action. For a complete and up-to-date list of affected products, please visit the FDA website.
This situation highlights the importance of staying informed about food recalls and the rigorous safety standards that companies like Puerto Rico Supplies Group uphold. While the national recall is concerning, the swift clarification regarding the Puerto Rican supply chain demonstrates a commitment to consumer well-being. At Archyde, we’re dedicated to bringing you the latest breaking news and providing the context you need to navigate important issues like food safety.
