Family Farmstead Dairy is recalling a specific lot of its Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese because the product may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli bacteria, according to a company announcement published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 15, 2026. The recall affects 8-ounce packages of Family Farmstead A2 Raw Cheddar Cheese, and consumers are being advised not to eat the affected product.
The updated recall notice identifies two potentially harmful E. coli strains, O26:H11 and O45:H2. The company initiated the recall after testing in Maryland detected the bacteria in samples of the cheese. As of the latest FDA-posted announcement, no illnesses or allergic reactions had been reported in connection with the recalled product.
Which Family Farmstead Dairy Cheese Is Being Recalled?
The recall applies to a specific lot of Family Farmstead Dairy Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese sold in 8-ounce packages. Consumers should check the product label and package information carefully to determine whether their cheese is included.
- Product: Family Farmstead Dairy Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese
- Package size: 8 ounces (226 grams)
- Lot code: 7/22/27
- Best-by date: July 22, 2027
- Reason for recall: Potential contamination with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O26:H11 and O45:H2
The affected product is sold under the Family Farmstead brand. The company has stated that no other Family Farmstead Dairy products are included in this recall.
Recall Affects Seven States, With Possible Further Distribution
According to the updated announcement, the recalled cheese was distributed to grocery stores in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia and Massachusetts. The product may also have reached additional states through downstream distributors.
Consumers should not assume that the cheese is unaffected simply because they purchased it outside the seven listed states. Anyone who has the product should check the lot code and best-by date against the recall information before consuming it.
What Should Consumers Do With the Recalled Cheese?
Consumers who purchased the affected lot should not eat it, even if the cheese looks and smells normal. E. coli contamination cannot reliably be identified by inspecting a food product.
The company advises consumers to discard the recalled cheese or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Anyone handling the product should avoid contaminating other foods, kitchen surfaces or utensils.
Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Family Farmstead Dairy at (607) 397-4044 or email customerservice@familyfarmsteaddairy.com. The company lists its customer service hours as Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time.
Why Is E. coli Contamination a Serious Concern?
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli can cause gastrointestinal illness, including diarrhea, severe stomach cramps and, in some cases, bloody stools. Some people may also experience vomiting or a fever. Symptoms and their severity can vary depending on the individual and the strain involved.
In certain cases, an E. coli infection can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious complication that can cause kidney failure. Young children and older adults are among those at greater risk of severe complications.
People who develop bloody diarrhea, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration or other concerning symptoms after consuming a potentially contaminated product should contact a healthcare professional promptly. Signs such as markedly reduced urination, unusual bruising or extreme fatigue require urgent medical attention because they may indicate a serious complication.
What the Company Has Said About the Recall
Family Farmstead Dairy, based in Worcester, New York, has apologized to consumers and retail partners for the recall. The company said it is committed to identifying the cause of the issue and taking corrective measures to protect the safety and quality of its products.
The FDA’s October 15 announcement includes corrected information about the distribution pattern and the E. coli strains associated with the recall. Consumers should rely on the updated product identifiers and distribution details when checking their purchases.
For now, the recall remains focused on the specified lot of Family Farmstead Dairy Raw Mild Cheddar Cheese. Consumers should verify the lot code and best-by date, avoid eating the affected product and follow the company’s instructions for disposal or a refund.