Full Breakdown
E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Raw Farm Cheddar Cheese
3/17/2026, 7:56:21 PM
Overview of the Outbreak
A multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections has been linked to raw cheddar cheese produced by California-based Raw Farm. The outbreak has affected at least seven individuals across California, Florida, and Texas, with illnesses reported between September 2025 and mid-February 2026. Among the affected, four cases involve children aged three years or younger, and two individuals have been hospitalized. However, no deaths or cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) have been reported.
Key Details of the Investigation
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified Raw Farm's raw cheddar cheese as the "likely source" of the outbreak, although no products from the company have tested positive for E. coli during the investigation. The FDA's epidemiological analysis indicates that the infections are genetically related, suggesting a common source. The specific products implicated include all sizes of Raw Farm's original block and shredded cheddar cheese.
Despite the FDA's recommendation for Raw Farm to voluntarily recall its products, the company has declined to do so. Mark McAfee, the owner of Raw Farm, stated that the company disagrees with the FDA's findings and maintains that all its products are tested for harmful bacteria before release. McAfee emphasized that no pathogens have been found in their products and described the FDA's actions as "premature."
Health Risks and Recommendations
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has long warned against the consumption of raw milk products due to the risk of contamination with harmful bacteria, including E. coli, listeria, and salmonella. Symptoms of E. coli infection can include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting, typically appearing two to eight days after exposure. Vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for severe illness.
In light of the outbreak, health officials recommend that consumers avoid Raw Farm's cheddar cheese products and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the cheese. The FDA is currently conducting further testing of the implicated products.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the FDA's handling of the situation include Raw Farm representatives, who argue that the agency's recommendations are based on flawed data. McAfee has publicly stated that the company has always taken responsibility for its products and would issue a recall if a direct connection to the outbreak were established. He described the FDA's actions as "extreme harassment" towards the brand.
What's Next
The investigation into the outbreak is ongoing, with state and local health officials continuing to gather data on the remaining cases. The FDA is also working with state partners to conduct additional testing of Raw Farm's products to determine the source of contamination. As the situation develops, consumers are advised to remain vigilant regarding the consumption of raw dairy products.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We do not release any products unless we know that they are pathogen-free. The FDA and CDC have taken premature, unwarranted, and unfounded action against Raw Farm.” — Mark McAfee, Owner of Raw Farm
- “Epidemiologic evidence indicates that RAW FARM-brand raw cheddar cheese products made by RAW FARM, LLC are the likely source of this outbreak.” — FDA Statement
- “We disagree 100% with the allegations made by the FDA and CDC,” — Raw Farm Statement
This outbreak highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety of raw milk products and the responsibilities of producers in ensuring consumer health.
