Brie and Camembert Cheese in U.S. And Mexico, Recalled Due to Listeria Outbreak

According to an FDA press release, Brie and Camembert cheeses sold throughout the U.S. and Mexico were recalled after being connected to a Listeria outbreak that resulted in 6 instances between 2017 and 2022.

Following a thorough environmental audit of 120 samples of its goods and facilities, Old Europe Cheese, Inc. issued a voluntary recall on Friday for Brie and Camembert cheese in U.S. and Mexico supplied between August 1 and September 28 with expiration dates through December 1. One of the facility's samples tested positive for Listeria, according to the audit, Media Drift reports.

A CDC food safety advisory says that Listeria is an infection that can cause serious illness when germs spread from the intestine to other body parts.

This is especially true for people over 65, pregnant women, people with weak immune systems, and babies. In mild cases, the virus can cause food poisoning. In more severe cases, it can cause early labor, pregnancy loss, and the death of a baby.

The CDC says that the recalled cheese products were sold in 25 different brand names, including Black Bear and Trader Joe's, and in many stores, such as Whole Foods, Stop & Shop, and Lidl.

While the products were distributed nationwide, the Listeria outbreak has been reported in Georgia, California, Texas, Michigan, Massachusetts, and New Jersey.

A multi-state outbreak of Listeria illnesses has been connected to those cheeses, and the FDA, the CDC, and state and local partners are currently examining the situation. Epidemiological data from the CDC indicates that four out of five patients who supplied information before becoming ill had consumed Brie or Camembert cheese.

Listeria monocytogenes were found in environmental samples from the facility, and a whole genome sequencing (WGS) investigation revealed that the strain of Listeria found the same strain causing symptoms in this outbreak.

CDC Recommendations for Those Who Have Bought the Particular Brie and Camembert Cheese

The CDC warned anyone who has purchased these products to dispose of them and sanitize any surfaces they may have come into contact with. According to the CDC, Listeria may survive in the cold and spread to any object or food left out.

According to NBC News, the Michigan-based manufacturer, Old Europe Cheese, has indefinitely ceased production of the affected Brie and Camembert cheese products and is cooperating with local, state, and federal officials to facilitate a swift recall.

Old Europe's Statement on Brie and Camembert Cheese in U.S. and Mexico Recall

"The source of potential contamination has been identified, and Old Europe Cheese is taking active measures to eliminate it," the company said in a statement. "We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by this situation."

Old Europe Cheese will answer questions by calling 269-925-5003 extension 335 from 9 am to 12:30 pm and 2 pm and 4 pm Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Listeria outbreak in cheeses lead to recall - From WWLP-22News