Sierra Nevada Cheese Company recalls raw milk cheese amid E. coli outbreak

Sierra Nevada Cheese Company has initiated a voluntary nationwide recall of all Graziers brand raw milk cheeses following a multi-state E. coli outbreak. The recalled products include medium cheddar, sharp cheddar, jalapeño jack, and Monterey jack cheeses, sold in 8-ounce, 16-ounce, and 5-pound formats.

Health officials have confirmed at least 13 cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli across approximately ten states, including California, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Colorado, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and Michigan. The outbreak has disproportionately affected young children, with the average age of those infected being five years old.

At least eight individuals have been hospitalized, with three developing hemolytic uremic syndrome, a life-threatening complication that can lead to kidney failure. Public health officials warn that unpasteurized products carry high risks for children, pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.