Washington, D.C. – The Food and Drug Administration has elevated a nationwide cheese recall to its most serious classification after laboratory testing confirmed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause severe illness and, in some cases, death. The recall has now been designated as a Class I, the FDA’s highest risk level, indicating a reasonable probability of serious adverse health consequences if the product is consumed.
The update follows further review of testing results tied to a recall originally announced in late November and detailed by the FDA, which continues to monitor the situation closely. No confirmed illnesses have been reported so far.
FDA Upgrades Recall to Class I Status
The FDA upgraded the recall last week, citing confirmed contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. A Class I recall is issued when there is a strong likelihood that exposure to a product could result in serious health outcomes or death.
The initial recall was initiated by the Ambriola Company on Nov. 25, 2025, after routine testing detected traces of the bacteria in several grated pecorino romano cheese products. While no illnesses have been linked to the recalled items, health officials say the risk remains significant.
Why Listeria Is Dangerous
Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. Pregnant women face an increased risk of miscarriage or stillbirth, while older adults, young children, and people with weakened immune systems may develop severe or life-threatening complications.
Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, confusion, and in severe cases, bloodstream infections or meningitis.
List of Recalled Cheese Products
According to information published by the FDA, eight cheese products are included in the recall. Four were sold directly to consumers, while four were distributed for large-scale or institutional cooking. Full lot numbers and product codes are available on the FDA website.
Consumer Products
- Locatelli grated pecorino romano
4 oz. and 8 oz. plastic cups with lids (12 units per case); 6,632 units recalled
5 lb. and 10 lb. plastic bags; 964 bags recalled - Pinna grated pecorino romano
10 lb. plastic bags (two per case); 45 bags recalled - Boar’s Head grated pecorino romano
6 oz. plastic cups with lids (12 units per case); 2,106 units recalled
Large-Scale Cooking Products
- Member’s Mark (Sam’s Club) pecorino romano grated
1.5 lb. plastic bags (12 units per case); 1,015 bags recalled - Boar’s Head pecorino romano grated
5 lb. plastic bags; 405 bags recalled - Ambriola Piccante grated pecorino romano
5 lb. and 10 lb. plastic bags; 179 bags recalled - Locatelli grated pecorino romano
8 oz. plastic cups with lids (48 units per case); 184 units recalled
States Affected by the Recall
The recalled cheese products were distributed across 20 states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
Consumers in these states are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers carefully.
What Consumers Should Do Now
The FDA advises anyone who purchased the affected products not to consume them, even if the cheese has been frozen. Consumers should discard the products immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
Health officials also recommend cleaning and sanitizing any surfaces, containers, or utensils that may have come into contact with the recalled cheese to prevent cross-contamination.
The recall details and updates are being maintained by the FDA, which continues to investigate and monitor for any related illnesses.
