Full Breakdown
E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Raw Cheddar Cheese from Raw Farm
3/17/2026, 11:13:18 AM
Overview of the Outbreak
At least seven individuals across California, Florida, and Texas have been reported sick due to an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 linked to Raw Farm's raw cheddar cheese products. The illnesses occurred between September 1, 2025, and February 13, 2026, with five cases in California and one each in Florida and Texas. Notably, four of the affected individuals are children aged three or younger, and two patients have been hospitalized, though no fatalities have been reported.
Company Response and FDA Recommendations
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified Raw Farm, a California-based company, as the likely source of the outbreak. Despite the FDA's recommendation for Raw Farm to voluntarily recall its raw cheddar cheese products, the company has declined to do so. Mark McAfee, the owner of Raw Farm, stated that no pathogens have been found in their products and criticized the FDA's announcement as premature. The FDA has initiated an investigation, including genetic sequencing of the bacteria from sick patients, which indicates a connection to Raw Farm's products.
Health Risks and Symptoms
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that raw dairy products, including those made from unpasteurized milk, pose significant health risks. Symptoms of E. coli infection can manifest three to five days after exposure and include severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. The CDC emphasizes that certain populations, such as children under five, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for severe illness.
Ongoing Investigation and Consumer Advisory
The FDA is collaborating with state agencies to test Raw Farm's cheddar products for E. coli. Consumers are advised to avoid these products and to sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with them. The CDC has also recommended that individuals who have consumed the affected cheese and are experiencing symptoms seek medical attention.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the FDA's handling of the situation, including McAfee, argue that the agency's findings lack definitive evidence linking Raw Farm's products to the illnesses. McAfee has expressed his belief that the outbreak announcement was made without sufficient investigation, stating, "They have found no pathogens in any of our products."
Verbatim Quotes
- “[The] FDA has recommended that Raw Farm, LLC, voluntarily remove their raw cheese products from the market, and the firm has declined,” — U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- “They have found no pathogens in any of our products,” — Mark McAfee, Owner of Raw Farm
Conclusion
The E. coli outbreak linked to Raw Farm's raw cheddar cheese highlights ongoing concerns regarding food safety and the risks associated with raw dairy products. As investigations continue, health officials urge consumers to remain vigilant and informed about the potential dangers of consuming unpasteurized products.
