A recall of soft ricotta‑style cheeses has been issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after a multi‑state Listeria monocytogenes outbreak. The outbreak, linked to Clover Hill Dairy, has resulted in eight confirmed infections, seven hospitalizations, and one death.

Recall Details

Clover Hill Dairy voluntarily recalled all plain and flavored requesón and ricotta products on June 3, 2026. The affected items were sold under the company’s own brand and also repackaged for third‑party distributors in Maryland, New York, and Virginia. Consumers can identify recalled cheese by looking for the plant permit number “24‑128” printed on the packaging.

Health Advisory

Listeria is a bacteria that can cause listeriosis, a serious food‑borne illness especially dangerous for pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may appear within 24 hours or up to 70 days after exposure and include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and, in severe cases, neurological complications.

Both the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urge anyone who has purchased the recalled product to discard it immediately. If the product was already opened, throw it away as a precaution.

Cleaning and Prevention

Cleaning surfaces that may have touched the product is essential, as Listeria can survive in cold conditions. The CDC recommends washing with hot, soapy water and sanitizing with a solution of 1 tablespoon of liquid bleach per gallon of water. This precaution helps prevent cross‑contamination to other foods.

Consumers experiencing any symptoms should seek medical evaluation promptly and report their case to local health authorities.

Regulatory Response

The Maryland Department of Health has suspended Clover Hill Dairy’s operating license pending a further site inspection. The FDA notes that additional products may be added to the recall as the investigation continues. The situation remains under active monitoring by federal and state agencies.