The FDA has issued a warning about raw feta cheese because of a potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. This cheese was produced by Osage Lane Creamery in Pataskala, Ohio. The cheese is made with unpasteurized goat milk. Pasteurization is a process that heats the milk in order to kill potential pathogens. The FDA found Listeria monocytogenes in the creamery on several occasions during 2015, including May 21, May 22, June 15, and July 16-19. The FDA also found Listeria during inspections in 2012. Due to the presence of Listeria, the feta cheese that is produced at the facility is to be considered contaminated. These products should not be consumed.
Listeria monocytogenes infections, referred to as Listeriosis, can be very serious. Listeriosis usually occurs after eating food contaminated with the bacteria. Deli meats and dairy products are the most commonly the cause of Listeria monocytogenes outbreaks. Symptoms will generally appear between 3 and 70 days after infection. Symptoms of Listeria poisoning include fever, nausea, diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, and muscle aches. Children, the elderly, those with HIV/AIDS, and pregnant women are at a greater risk of infection. If you or a loved one begins to show the symptoms of Listeria poisoning, contact a medical professional.
