Quesos La Ricura LTD. of Hicksville, NY, is recalling 12 oz. packages of Cotija Cheese (Queso Cotija) in five states because it may be contaminated with Shiga toxin producing E. coli bacteria.
The voluntary recall began after the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services discovered that the product was contaminated with Shiga toxin producing E. coli.
Cotija Cheese was distributed through retail stores in New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Florida.
This product comes in a plastic-wrapped yellow styrofoam container with a label reading “Quesos La Ricura Queso Cotija, Cotija Cheese aged over 60 days” UPC: 7 69087 00933 6 and a weight of 12 oz. This information only applies to “Sell By” date May 20, 2020-3/ May 20, 2020-4.
Shiga toxin producing E. coli causes a diarrheal illness, often with bloody stools, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young children and the elderly. The condition can lead to severe kidney damage and even death.
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No illnesses have been reported to date. Consumers who have purchased Quesos La Ricura Cotija Cheese (Queso Cotija) are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (516) 932-5756.