Abbey Specialty Foods recalls Wicklow Gold cheddar cheese products due to potential listeria contamination, sparking concerns for consumer safety across multiple states.
At a Glance
- Two Wicklow Gold cheddar cheese blends are being recalled due to possible listeria contamination
- The recall affects 5.2 oz. packages of Cheddar Nettle & Chive and Cheddar Tomato & Herb varieties
- Products were distributed in Ohio, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire
- Listeria can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable populations
- Consumers are advised to discard the products or seek a refund
Details of the Recall
Abbey Specialty Foods, based in Fairfield, New Jersey, has initiated a recall of two Wicklow Gold cheddar cheese products due to potential listeria contamination. The affected items are Wicklow Gold Cheddar Nettle & Chive and Wicklow Gold Cheddar Tomato & Herb, both supplied by Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese LTD. The recall applies to 5.2 oz. packages of each cheese product with a sell-by date of June 2, 2025.
The recalled cheeses were distributed in Ohio, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. Consumers can identify the affected products by the following details:
Cheddar Nettle & Chive: batch 24192, lot 1113880, UPC 797776045730, GTIN 73585016606300
Cheddar Tomato & Herb: batch 24175, lot 1113881, UPC 797776045778, GTIN 73585017737300
“Abbey Specialty Foods of Fairfield, NJ is recalling Wicklow Gold Cheddar Nettle & Chive and Wicklow Gold Cheddar Tomato & Herb because they have the potential to be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems” the FDA’s recall alert warned.
Abbey Specialty Foods of Fairfield, NJ, is recalling cheddar cheese products sold under the Wicklow Gold brand due to listeria fears. Here's what to know: https://t.co/986CNo6G9C
— Fast Company (@FastCompany) January 6, 2025
Health Risks Associated with Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeria infection include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In pregnant women, listeria can lead to miscarriages and stillbirths.
The severity of listeriosis symptoms can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. High-risk groups should be particularly cautious.
Consumer Guidance
Consumers who have purchased the affected Wicklow Gold cheddar cheese products are advised to discard them immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Those with questions or concerns can contact Abbey Specialty Foods at 862-210-8150 or via email at [email protected] for more information.
Recent Trend in Food Recalls
This recall is part of a series of recent food recalls due to listeria concerns. Other products affected in separate incidents include carrots, cucumbers, frozen waffles, ice cream, and ready-to-eat chicken. A significant recall of Boar’s Head meat also led to the closure of a plant in Virginia. These incidents underscore the importance of food safety measures and prompt action by both manufacturers and consumers to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food recalls and to follow FDA guidelines to protect their health and safety. For the latest information on food recalls, visit the FDA’s website or follow their official social media channels.
Sources:
NJ cheese maker recalls Wicklow Gold. What you need to know
RECALL: Two Wicklow Gold cheddar cheese variants recalled over possible Listeria
Cheddar cheese listeria recall hits several states: FDA says avoid these Wicklow Gold products
