Check your fridge for these brands: 1.5 million bags of shredded cheese recalled

Authorities have announced a voluntary recall of more than 1.5 million bags of various shredded cheeses sold at major U.S. retailers, including stores in California, due to the risk of metal fragments. The recall was initiated in early October by Great Lakes Cheese Co., based in Ohio, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The recall affects over 260,000 cases of shredded cheese and was prompted by the possibility of metal contamination in the products. On Monday, the FDA classified the recall as "Class II," indicating that exposure to the affected cheeses could result in temporary or medically reversible health issues. The FDA continues to investigate the situation.

Great Lakes Cheese Co. describes itself as a leading producer and packager of natural and processed cheeses, including bulk, shredded, and sliced varieties.

Affected Products

• 235,000 cases of low-moisture part-skim mozzarella shredded cheese from brands such as Always Save, Borden, Brookshire's, Cache Valley Creamery, Chestnut Hill, Coburn Farms, Econo, Food Club, Food Lion, Gold Rush Creamery, Good & Gather, Great Lakes Cheese, Happy Farms by Aldi, H-E-B, Hill Country Fare, Know & Love, Laura Lynn, Lucerne Dairy Farms, Nu Farm, Publix, Schnucks, Simply Go, Sprouts Farmers Market, Stater Bros. Markets, and Sunnyside Farms.
• 1,900 cases of Happy Farms by Aldi Italian-style shredded cheese blend.
• Over 15,000 cases of Italian-style shredded cheese blend from brands including Brookshire's, Cache Valley Creamery, Coburn Farms, Great Value, Know & Love, Laura Lynn, Publix, Simply Go, and Happy Farms.
• 117 cases of Food Club finely shredded pizza-style four-cheese blend.
• More than 4,000 cases of mozzarella and mild cheddar blend from Econo, Food Club, Gold Rush Creamery, Great Value, Laura Lynn, and Simply Go.
• More than 4,000 cases of mozzarella and non-smoked provolone blend from Freedom's Choice, Good & Gather, Great Lakes Cheese, and Great Value.
• Over 1,800 cases of Good & Gather mozzarella and parmesan blend.

The products carry sell-by dates from January through late March of the following year. A complete list of affected items, including UPC codes, is available on the FDA website.

Distribution

The recalled cheeses were sold in five different varieties under multiple brand names at major retailers such as Target, Walmart, and Aldi, and were distributed across 31 states, including Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, New York, Texas, and Washington, as well as Puerto Rico.

FDA Guidance

The FDA advises consumers to either return recalled products to the place of purchase or dispose of them. If the contaminated cheese contacted surfaces in your home, those areas should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Hands should also be washed with warm water and soap after handling.

Analysis of the Great Lakes Cheese Co. Voluntary Recall

The recent voluntary recall initiated by Great Lakes Cheese Co. has raised significant concern among consumers and food safety experts alike. Over 1.5 million bags of shredded cheese, sold at major U.S. retailers, are being recalled due to the potential presence of metal fragments. The recall, which spans a range of shredded cheese products from various popular brands, underscores the ongoing risks that manufacturers face in ensuring food safety during production and packaging processes.

While the recall has been classified as a "Class II" by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), indicating a low risk of severe health consequences, it remains an important reminder of the vigilance required in food production. The affected cheeses, which include varieties like mozzarella, cheddar, and Italian-style blends, were distributed across 31 states and Puerto Rico, and involved brands widely available in major retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Aldi.

In response, the FDA has issued clear guidance to consumers, advising the return or disposal of affected products and the thorough cleaning of any surfaces that may have come into contact with the cheese. While the recall may seem contained, it highlights the challenges faced by both food producers and regulatory bodies in preventing contamination in widely distributed products.

The situation continues to unfold as the FDA conducts its investigation, and it remains to be seen if further recalls or updates will be necessary. As of now, Great Lakes Cheese Co. has not reported any confirmed injuries linked to the contaminated products. However, the company’s proactive recall strategy, initiated early in October, reflects an effort to minimize potential harm.

Sources:

• 1.5 million bags of shredded cheese have been recalled. Check your fridge for these brands

Author: Maya Henderson
Maya Henderson is a journalist focused on technology and startups. She has experience in leading IT publications and excels at conducting interviews and creating visual content.