E. coli Outbreak Linked to Raw Milk Cheese from California Farm

An outbreak of E. coli food poisoning has been linked to cheddar cheese made from raw milk produced by Raw Farm, a dairy operation based in Fresno, California. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) report that at least nine individuals across three states—California, Texas, and Florida—have fallen ill, with over half of the cases involving children under the age of five. Three individuals have been hospitalized, and one developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure.

9 Sickened in E. coli Outbreak Tied to California Raw Milk ProducerE. coli Outbreak Linked to California Raw Milk and CheeseNBC News9 sickened in E. coli outbreak tied to a California company's raw milk and cheeseRaw Farm defies FDA as E. coli outbreak spreads

The outbreak was first reported on March 15, 2026, with illnesses confirmed between September 2025 and mid-February 2026. Genetic testing has shown that the E. coli strains from the affected individuals are closely related, indicating a common source of infection. Interviews with patients revealed that seven of them had consumed dairy products from Raw Farm, with five specifically recalling eating the farm's raw cheddar cheese. Despite the FDA's recommendation for Raw Farm to voluntarily recall its products, the company has refused, asserting that no tests have confirmed E. coli in their products.

Raw Farm defies FDA as E. coli outbreak spreadsNBC News9 sickened in E. coli outbreak tied to a California company's raw milk and cheese9 Sickened in E. coli Outbreak Tied to California Raw Milk ProducerE. coli Outbreak Linked to California Raw Milk and Cheese

E. coli infections can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal cramping, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea, typically appearing three to four days after exposure. While most individuals recover within a week, certain groups, such as young children and those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for complications. The CDC advises consumers to avoid Raw Farm cheese products during the ongoing investigation and to sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the cheese.

The FDA has stated that its investigation is ongoing and continues to work with state partners to analyze samples and assess the situation. A spokesperson mentioned that the agency has initiated an on-site inspection of Raw Farm facilities. In response to the outbreak, members of the Congressional Food Safety Caucus have called for the FDA to exercise its mandatory recall authority, criticizing Raw Farm's refusal to comply with the voluntary recall request.

NBC News

Raw Farm is known for producing unpasteurized dairy products, which have gained popularity in recent years, partly due to advocacy from Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. However, the consumption of raw milk carries inherent risks, as it can harbor dangerous bacteria such as E. coli, salmonella, and listeria. The FDA typically relies on voluntary recalls, intervening only when there is a significant public health risk.

E. coli Outbreak Linked to California Raw Milk and Cheese9 Sickened in E. coli Outbreak Tied to California Raw Milk ProducerRaw Farm defies FDA as E. coli outbreak spreadsNBC News9 sickened in E. coli outbreak tied to a California company's raw milk and cheese

As the investigation continues, the FDA and CDC are monitoring the situation closely. No Raw Farm products have tested positive for E. coli to date, but health officials emphasize the importance of consumer awareness regarding the risks associated with raw dairy products. The situation underscores ongoing debates about food safety regulations and the responsibilities of producers in the raw milk market.

Raw Farm defies FDA as E. coli outbreak spreads9 Sickened in E. coli Outbreak Tied to California Raw Milk ProducerNBC NewsE. coli Outbreak Linked to California Raw Milk and Cheese9 sickened in E. coli outbreak tied to a California company's raw milk and cheese