20 STATE CHEESE RECALL UPGRADED TO HIGHEST LEVEL OF DANGER
The Ambriola Co., Inc., based in West Caldwell, New Jersey, initiated a voluntary recall of various grated Pecorino Romano cheese products after routine testing confirmed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious and potentially fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
The recall, which the FDA classified as Class I (the highest risk level, indicating a reasonable probability of serious adverse health consequences or death) on January 6, 2026, involves multiple brands including Locatelli, Boar’s Head, Pinna, Sam’s (Member’s Mark), and Ambriola Piccante. Affected items include grated Pecorino Romano in various sizes, such as 4 oz and 8 oz plastic cups, 5- and 10-pound plastic bags, and larger bulk or shipper cases, with specific lot numbers (primarily starting with 100057) linked to each product.
A total of over 11,000 units across eight recall entries were impacted, distributed to retail stores and distributors in 20 states: AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, MA, ME, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, TX, VA, WA, and WI, between November 3 and November 20, 2025. The firm has suspended production and distribution of the affected products while reviewing sanitation and safety procedures, and no illnesses have been reported as of the latest updates.
Consumers should check their refrigerators for matching lot numbers, discard or return the products for a refund, and contact a healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of listeriosis such as fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, or diarrhea.
For more details, the original FDA announcement and press releases from November 25, 2025, provide further information.
