U.S. Marshals Seize Estrella Family Creamery Cheeses

monocytogenes (L. mono) and may cause serious illness.

L. mono is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

Listeria infections can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Consumers who have the cheeses should throw them away.

Consumers with symptoms of Listeria should consult their health care professionals.

What is the Problem? The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers to discard cheeses from Estrella Family Creamery of Montesano, Wash., because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  Environmental samples and one product sample collected by the FDA during an August 2010 inspection at the facility have tested positive for L. mono. The company had previously recalled cheeses due to L. mono contamination, but resumed marketing in May 2010. 

Previous recall notices for Estrella products:

2/10/10: Estrella Family Creamery Recalls Red Darla Cheese Due to Possible Health Risks

2/17/10: Estrella Family Creamery Expands Recall Of Various Cheeses Because Of Possible Health Risk

3/5/10: Estrella Family Creamery Recalls Old Apple Tree Tomme Cheese Due to Possible Health Risks