Full Breakdown
Walmart's Great Value Cottage Cheese Recall: Health Risks and Consumer Guidance
2/26/2026, 8:04:12 AM
Overview of the Recall
On February 25, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a recall of certain cottage cheese products sold under Walmart's Great Value brand due to concerns that they may not have been properly pasteurized. The recall affects products distributed by Saputo Cheese USA, Inc. in 24 states between February 17 and February 20, 2026. The issue was identified during pasteurizer troubleshooting exercises conducted by Saputo in collaboration with the California Department of Food and Agriculture.
Affected Products
The recall includes three specific cottage cheese varieties:
- Great Value Fat Free Small Curd Cottage Cheese (0% Milkfat): 24-ounce container, UPC 078742373393, with best-by dates of April 1 and April 3, 2026.
- Great Value Lowfat Small Curd Cottage Cheese (2% Milkfat): 24-ounce container, UPC 078742116730, with best-by dates from April 1 to April 3, 2026.
- Great Value Small Curd Cottage Cheese (4% Milkfat minimum): Available in 16-ounce, 24-ounce, and 3-pound containers, with various UPCs and best-by dates primarily from April 1 to April 3, 2026.
These products were sold in Walmart stores across the following states: Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
Health Risks
The FDA has emphasized that consuming unpasteurized dairy products can pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. While no illnesses or hospitalizations have been reported in connection with this recall, the potential for harmful bacteria in improperly pasteurized products remains a concern.
Consumer Guidance
Consumers who have purchased the affected cottage cheese products are advised not to consume them. Instead, they should return the products to Walmart for a full refund or dispose of them safely. For further inquiries, consumers can contact Saputo Cheese USA at 1-888-587-2423 during business hours.
Official Statements
Saputo Cheese USA has confirmed that the pasteurizer involved in the issue has been restored to normal function and verified by regulatory authorities. The company has stated that no other products produced at the facility are believed to be affected by this recall.
Conclusion
This recall highlights the importance of food safety and the regulatory measures in place to protect consumers. As the situation develops, consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food recalls and safety alerts issued by the FDA.
