08/17/2010 // West Palm Beach, FL, USA // Tara Monks // Tara Monks
Woodhaven, NY – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, New York State Agriculture and Mexicali Cheese Corp. announced a recall of Cotija style cheese due to possible Staphylococcus aureus contamination on Friday, August 6, 2010. New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker warned consumers in the Queens, New York area to avoid consuming certain “Queso Cotija Cheese” made by Mexicali Cheese Corp.
The recalled cheese was distributed in Queens and came in 14-ounce clear plastic packages with a plant code of #36-0128 and “SELL BY 102910” affixed on the side. The manufacturer name is visible on the package.
A routine sample taken by an inspector from the Division of Milk Control and Dairy Services was tested by the Department’s Food Laboratory on July 28, 2010. The results showed high levels of Staphylococcus aureus.
On August 3, Mexicali Cheese Corp. was alerted of the results. The firm quickly issued a recall of the cheese. The recalled product was grated from a larger wheel of cheese that remained at the plant and was disposed of by the firm.
The bacteria typically causes rapid food poisoning symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, retching, abdominal cramping and prostration. In sever cases; headache, muscle cramping and blood pressure changes may occur. Recovery from the infection usually takes two days.
No illnesses were reported in connection with the recall.
Consumers who purchased the product are advised to return the cheese to the place of purchase, or discard it.
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