Cheese Recalled in British Columbia and Ontario Over Listeria Risk

A batch of Mount Becher Buffalo Medium Cheese, sold under the Natural Pastures Cheese Company brand, has been recalled because of possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, according to a food recall warning published by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) on July 21.

The recall affects cheese distributed in British Columbia and Ontario. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause foodborne illness, particularly among pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

The CFIA stated that the recall was initiated following its own test results. The product affected is labeled as Mount Becher Buffalo Medium Cheese, with variable sizes, batch number 854 179, and no UPC code listed. The recalling firm is Natural Pastures Cheese Company Ltd.

As of the notice date, the CFIA reported no illnesses linked to consumption of the recalled cheese. The agency advised individuals not to consume, use, sell, serve, or distribute the recalled cheese. The CFIA also said that food contaminated with Listeria may not show signs of spoilage but can still cause illness. Symptoms can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. The infection is especially risky for pregnant women, as it can lead to more serious outcomes for the fetus and newborn.

The CFIA is continuing its food safety investigation, which may result in further recalls. The agency stated it is making sure that the affected products are being removed from the marketplace.