Full Breakdown
E. Coli Outbreak Linked to RAW FARM Cheddar Cheese
3/17/2026, 9:39:12 AM
Overview of the Outbreak
A multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections has been linked to RAW FARM-brand raw cheddar cheese produced by RAW FARM, LLC. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that seven individuals across California, Florida, and Texas have become ill after consuming the cheese. The illnesses were documented between September 2025 and mid-February 2026, with four of the infected individuals being children aged three years or younger. Two patients required hospitalization, but no fatalities have been reported.
Investigation and Findings
The FDA initiated an investigation after identifying a genetic link between the E. coli strains found in the infected individuals. Interviews with three of the patients revealed that they had consumed RAW FARM-brand raw cheddar cheese. Despite the epidemiological evidence suggesting that these products are the likely source of the outbreak, RAW FARM has declined to issue a voluntary recall of its cheese products. Mark McAfee, the owner of RAW FARM, stated that no pathogens have been detected in their products and criticized the FDA's findings as premature.
Affected Products
The specific products implicated in the outbreak include all sizes of RAW FARM's original block and shredded raw cheddar cheese. The FDA has recommended that consumers avoid these products and has advised retailers to sanitize surfaces that may have come into contact with them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has echoed this warning, urging consumers to consider not eating the affected cheeses.
Health Risks and Recommendations
E. coli O157:H7 can lead to severe health complications, including kidney failure, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of infection may include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting. The CDC advises anyone who has consumed RAW FARM-brand cheddar cheese and experiences these symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of RAW FARM's decision to not recall the cheese argue that the company is endangering public health by keeping potentially contaminated products on the market. The FDA's recommendation for a voluntary recall highlights the seriousness of the situation, yet the company's refusal to comply raises concerns among health officials and consumers alike.
Conflicting Reports
While the FDA has linked the outbreak to RAW FARM's cheese, it is important to note that no samples of the cheese have tested positive for E. coli during the investigation. This discrepancy has led to ongoing discussions about the adequacy of the evidence linking the cheese to the illnesses.
What's Next
The FDA, in collaboration with state health agencies, continues to investigate the outbreak and is conducting further testing of RAW FARM's products. The agency is working to determine the source of contamination and whether additional products may be implicated in the outbreak. As the investigation unfolds, consumers are advised to remain vigilant and informed about the safety of raw dairy products.
