Queseria Bendita LLC of Yakima, Washington is recalling all lots of Panela, Queso Fresco, Requeson, Cotija fresh soft cheese products and Sour Cream to include ALL Best By Dates because of a 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.
Panela, Queso Fresco, Requeson, Cotija fresh soft cheese products and Sour Cream were distributed to Hispanic grocery stores in Washington and Oregon and the firm also sold products from its on-site store in Yakima, Washington.
The recalled products are packaged with clear plastic wrapper or plastic tub, and the best by dates are stamp coded next to a label. The products are refrigerated and have the shelf life of up to 90 days. The last date of distribution of recalled products is January 15, 2015.
Up to date, there are a total of three (3) cases of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to consumption of soft cheese produced by Queseria Bendita, including two hospitalizations and one death.
The recall was the result of the investigation and samples collection by the Food and Drug Administration. The company has currently agreed to cease the production and distribution of all products.