Major Cheese Recall Impacts Orlando Stores
A significant food safety alert has been issued by Rizo-López Foods, Inc., leading to a widespread recall of various cheese, yogurt, and sour cream products. This urgent action stems from potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, directly impacting popular grocery retailers frequented by Orlando locals, including Walmart, Publix, Target, and Aldi, among others across Florida and multiple states.
Understanding the Widespread Recall
The recall initiated by Rizo-López Foods, Inc. is a critical precautionary measure following an investigation by the FDA and CDC into an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The affected products have been distributed nationwide, emphasizing the need for all consumers, especially in our Orlando community, to meticulously check their refrigerators and pantries.
Affected Products and Where They Were Sold in Florida
The recall encompasses an extensive range of dairy items, primarily focusing on various types of cheese, but also extending to some yogurt and sour cream products. Key brands implicated in this recall include Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo-López, Campesino, Santa Maria, Casa Cardenas, Dole, and Food City. It is crucial to note that while these brands are involved, consumers should specifically look for detailed product information, including lot numbers and best-by dates, which are often provided in official recall announcements for precise identification.
For residents in Orlando and wider Florida, these recalled products were sold in several major retail chains:
- Walmart: A significant distributor, likely stocking various Rizo-López Food products.
- Publix: A highly popular local grocery choice, also affected by this broad distribution.
- Target: Another large retailer where these specific dairy items may have been purchased.
- Aldi: Known for its diverse dairy selections, also included in the list of impacted stores.
Beyond these, the products were also distributed to retailers such as Save Mart, Lucky, FoodMaxx, Stater Bros, Sprouts, Smart & Final, Cardenas Markets, Northgate Gonzalez, and specific Whole Foods Market stores across different states. Always refer to official recall notices for the most current and complete list of affected retailers and products.
Common Recalled Product Categories and Brands
| Product Category | Associated Brands in Recall |
|---|---|
| Queso Fresco | Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo-López, Campesino, Santa Maria, Casa Cardenas, Food City |
| Cotija Cheese | Tio Francisco, Don Francisco |
| Crema (Sour Cream) | Campesino, Santa Maria, Casa Cardenas |
| Yogurt | Dole |
| Other Cheeses | Rizo-López (various types), Casa Cardenas |
Understanding the Threat of Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous bacterium responsible for listeriosis, a severe form of food poisoning. Symptoms of listeriosis can manifest as fever, intense muscle aches, headache, stiffness in the neck, confusion, loss of balance, and in severe cases, convulsions. While healthy individuals might experience only mild, short-term symptoms, the infection poses significant risks to pregnant women (potentially leading to miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns), the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. If you have consumed any recalled product and develop these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Immediate Steps for Orlando Consumers
If you have purchased any cheese, yogurt, or sour cream products under the affected brands (Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo-López, Campesino, Santa Maria, Casa Cardenas, Dole, Food City) or from the listed stores, it is absolutely imperative that you take the following actions:
- Verify Your Products: Carefully check the brand, product type, and any specific codes (UPC, lot number, best-by date) against the official recall information provided by the FDA or Rizo-López Foods, Inc.
- Do NOT Consume: Under no circumstances should you consume any of the recalled items, even if they appear and smell normal. The absence of visible mold or an off-odor does not indicate safety.
- Discard or Return: Safely dispose of the affected products by placing them in a sealed bag in the trash, or return them to the point of purchase for a full refund. Do not open or taste them.
- Thorough Cleaning and Sanitization: Crucially, clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled items. This includes refrigerator shelves, counters, cutting boards, and utensils, using hot soapy water followed by a sanitizing solution (like a diluted bleach solution) to prevent potential cross-contamination.
For the most detailed information, including specific product identifiers and visual guides, consumers are strongly encouraged to visit the FDA’s official recall announcement or contact Rizo-López Foods, Inc. directly via their customer service channels.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cheese Recall
- What stores in Orlando are confirmed to have sold these recalled products?
The recall directly affects products sold at major Orlando grocery stores, including Walmart, Publix, Target, and Aldi. - Which specific product categories and brands are involved in this recall?
The recall includes various queso fresco, cotija, and other cheese products, as well as some yogurt and sour cream. Key brands are Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo-López, Campesino, Santa Maria, Casa Cardenas, Dole, and Food City. - What are the common symptoms of a Listeria infection, and who is most at risk?
Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk. - What immediate steps should I take if I believe I have a recalled product?
Do not consume the product. Discard it immediately or return it to the store for a full refund. Ensure any surfaces it touched are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. - How can I find more specific details about the recalled items, like UPCs?
For comprehensive details, including specific product identifiers and UPC codes, please refer to the official recall announcements from the FDA or Rizo-López Foods, Inc.
Staying vigilant and informed about food recalls is a critical aspect of ensuring household safety and protecting public health. Always consult official health and food safety authorities for the latest updates and prioritize checking your pantry and refrigerator for any potentially harmful products to safeguard your family’s well-being.
Major Cheese Recall Impacts Orlando Stores
