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Shredded Cheese Recall Expanded Due to Metal Contamination
Table of Contents
- 1. Shredded Cheese Recall Expanded Due to Metal Contamination
- 2. Details of the Recall
- 3. What are the potential health risks associated with ingesting metal fragments found in food products?
- 4. FDA Recalls Shredded Cheese Due too Potential Metal fragment Contamination
- 5. Understanding the Recent Cheese Recall
- 6. Details of the FDA Recall Notice
- 7. Identifying Recalled Shredded cheese: A Checklist
- 8. Potential Health Risks of Metal Fragment Ingestion
- 9. What to Do If You Have Recalled Cheese
- 10. Preventing Foodborne Illness: Best Practices
- 11. Real-World Example: Past Cheese Recalls & Lessons Learned
Consumers across the Nation are being alerted to a significant recall affecting various brands of pre-packaged shredded cheese.The action was prompted by reports indicating the possible presence of foreign metal objects within the products, raising concerns for public safety.
Details of the Recall
The manufacturer initiated the voluntary recall after internal quality control checks identified the potential for metal contamination. While no injuries have been reported to date, officials emphasize the risk posed by ingesting even small metal fragments. The recall encompasses a wide range of shredded cheese varieties and package sizes sold under multiple popular grocery store labels.
The affected products were distributed nationwide through major supermarket chains and retail outlets.Consumers are urged to check packaging for specific lot codes and “best by” dates to determine if their cheese is subject to the recall. A extensive list of recalled products is available on the company’s website and through official announcements from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| reason for Recall | Potential presence of metal fragments |
| scope | Multiple brands of shredded cheese |
| Distribution | Nationwide |
| Reported Injuries | None to date |
The FDA is actively monitoring the situation and working with the manufacturer to ensure the recall is effective and that contaminated products are removed from store shelves promptly. Consumers who have purchased the recalled cheese are advised not to consume it and to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Did You Know? Food recalls are a critical component of the food safety system, designed to protect consumers from possibly harmful products. The FDA maintains a robust recall monitoring system and provides resources for consumers to stay informed.
Pro Tip: Always check for
What are the potential health risks associated with ingesting metal fragments found in food products?
FDA Recalls Shredded Cheese Due too Potential Metal fragment Contamination
Understanding the Recent Cheese Recall
The food adn drug administration (FDA) has recently issued a recall for several brands of shredded cheese due to the potential presence of metal fragments. This poses a significant health risk to consumers, as ingesting metal can cause injury to the digestive tract. This article details the specifics of the recall, affected products, potential health risks, and what consumers should do if they have purchased the recalled cheese. We’ll cover everything from identifying the specific cheese recall, to understanding food safety alerts and metal contamination in food.
Details of the FDA Recall Notice
As of December 5, 2025, the FDA is actively investigating reports of metal fragments found in shredded cheese products. The recall impacts multiple lot codes and brands, primarily affecting cheeses used in food service but also including some retail-sized packages.
* Recalling Company: Real Foods, Inc. is the primary company initiating the voluntary recall.
* Products Affected: This includes various shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Mexican blend cheeses. Specific product details, including UPC codes and lot numbers, are available on the FDA website (https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts).
* Reason for Recall: The presence of foreign material – specifically, metal fragments – was discovered during routine quality control checks. The source of the contamination is currently under investigation, perhaps linked to a manufacturing equipment failure.
* States Affected: The recall initially impacts products distributed in the Midwest and Southeast regions of the United States, but distribution may be wider. Check the FDA website for the most up-to-date details on affected states.
Identifying Recalled Shredded cheese: A Checklist
consumers should carefully check their refrigerators and pantries for the recalled products. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check the Brand: Verify if you have any of the brands listed on the FDA recall notice.
- Locate the Lot Code: Find the lot code printed on the cheese packaging. This is usually located near the expiration date.
- Compare to FDA List: Cross-reference the lot code on your package with the list of recalled lot codes published by the FDA.
- UPC Verification: Confirm the UPC code matches the codes listed in the recall announcement.
- Retailer Information: If you purchased the cheese from a grocery store, check their website or contact them directly for specific recall information related to their inventory.
Potential Health Risks of Metal Fragment Ingestion
Consuming shredded cheese contaminated with metal fragments can lead to several health complications. The severity depends on the size and shape of the fragment, as well as the location of injury within the digestive system.
* Mouth & Throat Injuries: Small fragments can cause cuts or abrasions in the mouth and throat.
* Esophageal Damage: Larger fragments can become lodged in the esophagus, causing pain, difficulty swallowing, and potentially requiring medical intervention.
* Stomach & Intestinal Injuries: Metal fragments can puncture or lacerate the stomach or intestinal lining, leading to internal bleeding, infection, and severe abdominal pain. This is a serious medical emergency.
* Symptoms to Watch For: If you suspect you’ve ingested a metal fragment, seek immediate medical attention if you experience: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, or blood in your stool.
What to Do If You Have Recalled Cheese
The FDA provides clear instructions for consumers who have purchased the recalled shredded cheese:
* Do Not Consume: Promptly stop using the recalled cheese.
* Return to Store: Return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
* Proper Disposal: If you are unable to return the cheese, discard it in a sealed container to prevent accidental consumption by others.
* Report Adverse Reactions: If you have experienced any adverse health effects after consuming the recalled cheese, report it to the FDA’s MedWatch program (https://www.fda.gov/safety/reporting-serious-problems-fda).
Preventing Foodborne Illness: Best Practices
Beyond this specific recall, adopting general food safety practices can substantially reduce your risk of foodborne illness.
* Proper Storage: Store cheese and other perishable items at the correct temperature (below 40°F).
* Check Expiration Dates: Regularly check expiration dates and discard expired products.
* safe Food Handling: Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling food. Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and produce.
* Stay Informed: Regularly check the FDA website for updates on food recalls and safety alerts. Sign up for email notifications to receive food recall alerts directly.
* Understand Food Safety Regulations: Familiarize yourself with basic food safety guidelines to protect yourself and your family.
Real-World Example: Past Cheese Recalls & Lessons Learned
In 2023, a similar recall occurred involving pre-shredded cheese contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. This incident highlighted the importance of rigorous sanitation procedures
