|
|
|
FDA Home Page | Search FDA Site | FDA A-Z Index | Contact FDA
|
FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company. |
Contact:
Ausencio Ariza
562-630-4144
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Paramount, CA -- September 19, 2003 -- Ariza Cheese Company Inc. is voluntarily recalling its Cotija Cheese vacuum packed in plastic and Cotija Cheese in foam tray with plastic cling wrap because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The Cotija Cheese was manufactured during the week from April 21, 2003 to April 25, 2003 and was distributed in California, Texas and New York through retail stores.
The Cotija Cheese vacuum packed in plastic, such as Amigo Grand 12 oz Queso Cotija wedge & 16 oz Queso Cotija Molido; Puebla Brand 12 oz Queso Cotija wedge & 16 oz Queso Cotija Molido; Liborio Brand 16 oz Queso Cotija Molido, and Ariza Brand 12 oz Queso Cotija wedge, 12 oz Queso Cotija square, 6 oz Queso Cotija Molido, 7 oz Queso Cotija Molido & 16 oz Queso Cotija Molido, has code date "Sell By Apr. 21-25 2004." The Cotija Cheese in foam tray with plastic cling wrap which is the Ariza Brand Queso Cotija tray in random weight has code date "Sell By Jul. 21-25 2003."
There have been no reports of illnesses to date in connection with this problem.
The potential for contamination was noted after routing sampling by the FDA in Dallas, Texas revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the Cotija Cheese.
Consumers who have purchased this product are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (562) 630-4144.
####