Ohio cheese co-op recalling products because of Listeria contamination

The Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op facility in Middlefield, OH, is recalling a variety of cheeses after testing showed contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

The recalled products were produced on June 16, June 24, 2025,and July 16, and distributed in the state of Ohio between July 14 and Aug. 7. Products were shipped to manufacturers and distributors and sold in retail stores.

The packages subject to recall were sold with the following labels:

• Middlefield Original Cheese Co-op 100% Grass-Fed Pepper Jack Cheese, 8 oz. packages, 5 Lb. loaves, and 40 Lb. loaves with Lot Code 251661
• Copia Collective 100% Grass-Fed Pepper Jack Cheese, 8 oz. packages with Lot Code 251661
• Middlefield Original Cheese Co-op Horseradish Flavored Cheese, 8 oz. packages with Lot Code 2524061
• Middlefield Original Cheese Co-op Monterey Jack Cheese, 8 oz. packages and 5 lb blocks with Lot Code 251672 and 40 lb. blocks with dates Coded as 7-16-25B
• Farmers Cheese 8 oz. packages and 5 lb blocks with Lot Code 251672 and 40 lb. blocks with dates Coded as 7-16-25B

Customers can find the lot codes on 8-ounce packets and 5-pound loaves located on the side. Customers can find date codes on 40-pound loaves. For photos of the labels, click here.

The recall was initiated after product testing by the company revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. Production was suspended while the company investigated the source of the contamination which was determined to be from environmental contamination that migrated to food-contact areas of the production process. 

There have been no reports of illness to date associated with consumption of these products.

Any customers with this product in their possession should dispose of it or return it to the retail location during normal business hours for a refund. Consumers with questions about the recall may contact the Middlefield Original Cheese Co-op General Manager Nevin Byler at 440-632-5567.

About Listeria infections
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look, smell or taste spoiled but can still cause serious and sometimes life-threatening infections. Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled cheese and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical treatment and tell their doctors about the possible Listeria exposure.

Also, anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products should monitor themselves for symptoms during the coming weeks because it can take up to 70 days after exposure to Listeria for symptoms of listeriosis to develop. 

Symptoms of Listeria infection can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are required to diagnose Listeria infections, which can mimic other illnesses. 

Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and people such as cancer patients who have weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of serious illnesses, life-threatening infections, other complications and death. Although infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, their infections can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.

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