Federal regulators have issued a nationwide recall of pre-grated cheese over concerns that it may be contaminated with Listeria, a bacterium that can cause serious illness. The warning has drawn attention because the recall was classified at the highest risk level, signaling a potential for severe or fatal outcomes.
The recalled products include grated Pecorino Romano distributed under multiple brand names and sold widely in grocery stores. Officials say the cheese may still be in home refrigerators because of long expiration dates, and consumers may not realize they purchased it. While no confirmed illnesses have been reported, Listeria infections can take weeks to appear, making early action critical.
Health authorities urge consumers not to eat the affected cheese and to discard it immediately. Listeria can survive refrigeration and spread through food-handling surfaces, increasing the risk of exposure. People in higher-risk groups, including older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, are advised to monitor symptoms and seek medical care if concerns arise.
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