E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Raw Cheese from California Farm

Federal health authorities are investigating a multistate outbreak of E. coli infections linked to cheddar cheese produced by Raw Farm LLC, a raw dairy farm based in California. The outbreak has resulted in seven confirmed cases across three states: California (five cases), Texas (one case), and Florida (one case). The illnesses were reported between September 1, 2025, and February 13, 2026, with two individuals requiring hospitalization. Notably, four of the infected individuals are children aged three years or younger, who are at a higher risk for severe illness.

Ars TechnicaFDA Investigates Raw Cheese E. Coli Outbreak as Manufacturer Declines RecallMedpage TodayCalifornia alert: E. coli linked to raw cheese leaves children affectedFDA Warns Texans Not To Consume This Brand's Raw CheeseNew York Times

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has indicated that epidemiological evidence suggests Raw Farm's raw cheddar cheese is the likely source of the outbreak. Genetic testing of the E. coli strains from the infected individuals shows a close genetic relationship, indicating a common source. Despite this, no Raw Farm products have tested positive for E. coli during the outbreak period. The FDA has recommended that Raw Farm voluntarily remove its cheese products from the market, but the company has declined to do so.

FDA Investigates Raw Cheese E. Coli Outbreak as Manufacturer Declines RecallFDA Warns Texans Not To Consume This Brand's Raw CheeseMedpage TodayArs TechnicaNew York TimesCalifornia alert: E. coli linked to raw cheese leaves children affected

Mark McAfee, the founder of Raw Farm, has publicly disputed the FDA's findings, asserting that the company conducts daily testing of its milk and weekly testing of its cows. He stated, “They have found no pathogens in any of our products,” and characterized the outbreak announcement as premature. Raw Farm has taken a defiant stance on social media, rejecting the FDA's claims and refusing to issue a recall of its products.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised consumers to consider avoiding Raw Farm's raw cheddar cheese products while the investigation is ongoing. Health officials are continuing to collect samples for testing, although results are not yet available. The CDC has emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention for anyone experiencing symptoms associated with E. coli infections, which can include severe gastrointestinal distress and, in some cases, kidney complications.

California alert: E. coli linked to raw cheese leaves children affected

This is not the first instance of Raw Farm facing scrutiny over food safety. In 2024, the company’s raw cheddar cheese was linked to a previous E. coli outbreak. Initially, Raw Farm agreed to a recall but later reversed its decision against CDC recommendations. The current investigation reflects ongoing concerns about the safety of raw dairy products, particularly those made from unpasteurized milk.

FDA Warns Texans Not To Consume This Brand's Raw CheeseArs TechnicaFDA Investigates Raw Cheese E. Coli Outbreak as Manufacturer Declines RecallMedpage TodayNew York TimesCalifornia alert: E. coli linked to raw cheese leaves children affected

The investigation into the E. coli outbreak linked to Raw Farm's cheddar cheese is ongoing, with health authorities working to determine the source of contamination and whether additional products are implicated. As the situation develops, consumers are advised to stay informed and exercise caution regarding the consumption of raw dairy products.

FDA Investigates Raw Cheese E. Coli Outbreak as Manufacturer Declines RecallMedpage TodayFDA Warns Texans Not To Consume This Brand's Raw CheeseArs TechnicaCalifornia alert: E. coli linked to raw cheese leaves children affectedNew York Times

• “We test all of our milk every day and we test cows every week, and all end products,” — Mark McAfee, Founder of Raw Farm

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• “We 100% disagree with the FDA’s false ‘possible link,’ and extreme allegations,” — Raw Farm Social Media Post

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• “They have found no pathogens in any of our products,” — Mark McAfee, Founder of Raw Farm

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• “consider not eating” the products. — CDC Advisory

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While the FDA has linked the outbreak to Raw Farm's cheese based on epidemiological evidence, the company maintains that no definitive link has been established, as no products have tested positive for E. coli. The investigation continues to gather data from additional cases to clarify the situation.

FDA Investigates Raw Cheese E. Coli Outbreak as Manufacturer Declines RecallMedpage TodayFDA Warns Texans Not To Consume This Brand's Raw CheeseCalifornia alert: E. coli linked to raw cheese leaves children affectedArs TechnicaNew York Times