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Sonoma Brand Teleme Spreadable Cheese Recalled Due to Possible Listeria Contamination

NEWS RELEASE



Contact:  David Viviani - President
          1-800-367-1947 ext 138

For Immediate Release

SONOMA, CA - May 18, 2001 -- Sonoma Foods, Inc., Sonoma CA is initiating a voluntary recall of ALL LOTS of Sonoma brand Teleme spreadable cheese 7.5oz deli cup and 9oz boxed from retail stores, due to possible health risk.

The recall is a result of a product sampling by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which revealed the finished product might contain the bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes. This organism 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. No illnesses have been reported to date.

Consumers who have purchased any lot of Sonoma brand Teleme spreadable cheese in a 7.5oz deli-cu or 9oz box are urged to return it to the place of purchase or call the above number for a full refund.

Retailers who have received Sonoma brand Teleme spreadable cheese are asked to remove them from sale and contact the phone number above.

The product has been distributed in the following states: California, Illinois, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, and Washington

The company has ceased the production and distribution of the product as the FDA and the company continue their investigation.

Any questions please contact David Viviani, Proprietor, at 800-367-1947, ext. 138.

FDA/Website Management Staff
Web page created by smc 2001-MAY-22.