FDA Alerts Public to High-Risk Recall of Graziers Raw Milk Cheese

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a high-risk alert for the recall of Graziers raw milk cheese products. This decision comes as a result of a multi-state E. coli outbreak, affecting 13 people and hospitalizing eight individuals.

Details of the Product Recall

The recall falls under the FDA’s Class I category, its most severe, indicating that consuming or exposure to the product poses significant health risks or death. This classification affects all Graziers raw milk cheese products made by Sierra Nevada Cheese Company in California. Varieties include Monterey Jack, jalapeño jack, medium cheddar, and sharp cheddar.

The products in question are available in retail packaging as well as larger formats for food-service and wholesale clients. Consumers are advised not to consume these cheeses. Distribution covers states such as Arizona, California, Colorado, and several others. The voluntary recall was initially announced on September 28.

Impact of the E. coli O26 Outbreak

The outbreak is linked to Escherichia coli O26, a Shiga toxin-producing strain that causes severe illness. By September 25, 13 people across nine states were confirmed infected. Eight required hospitalization and three developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a critical condition leading to kidney failure. Thankfully, no deaths have occurred, though more than half of those affected are children under five.

The CDC noted that all nine interviewed patients had consumed the cheese. Genetic analysis indicated a common source for the bacteria among the infected individuals. The Sierra Nevada Cheese Company has been contacted for comments regarding the recall.

Broader Context of Foodborne Illnesses in 2026

Cyclospora Outbreak

This year, one major foodborne outbreak involved Cyclospora, a parasite causing cyclosporiasis. By September 15, the CDC reported 19,883 U.S.-acquired cases between May and August. In contrast, 2025 had only 1,180 cases within the same period.

The 2026 reports included 1,064 hospitalizations and two fatalities, affecting 49 states and the District of Columbia. Over 12,000 cases were traced back to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico. This outbreak was declared over on September 11.

Salmonella Outbreaks

Salmonella has been another recurrent issue, with outbreaks linked to items like jalapeño peppers and raw oysters. By October 2, the CDC confirmed 488 cases in 34 states linked to jalapeño peppers from Sinaloa, Mexico. Among the 434 individuals with hospitalization data, 65 were admitted, with no fatalities reported. Evidence suggested contamination with Salmonella Javiana.

Listeria Concerns

Listeria has led to further recalls, notably with cheese from Clover Hill Dairy in Maryland. By August 26, 15 illnesses had been reported, leading to 14 hospitalizations and one death. The outbreak spanned from March 2023 to July 2026.

Listeria carries serious risks, particularly for vulnerable groups, and is typically linked to dairy products. However, the concerns vary based on the pathogen and the type of product involved, as seen with the Sierra Nevada and Clover Hill cases.

Declining Trust in Food Safety

Consumer confidence in food safety is waning. A Gallup survey indicates 65 percent of U.S. adults feel food at grocery stores is safe, the lowest recorded level. In 2025, confidence was at 73 percent, and 81 percent in 2019.

Only 47 percent trust the federal government to ensure food safety, a decline from previous years. Furthermore, 73 percent have withdrawn from consuming certain foods following recalls, compared to 53 percent in 2024. The poll conducted between September 1 and 17 included 1,000 adults, with a margin of error of 4 percentage points.