This story has been updated since it was originally published on 02/14/24 to include more information
Bad news for dairy lovers—a recent, widespread recall could affect your fridge contents. Rizo-López Foods, Inc. (“RLF”) has issued a voluntary recall of several dairy products—including sour cream, cheese, crema, and yogurt—due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Some of these products were sold at Costco and Trader Joe’s.
“RLF may be a potential source of illness in an ongoing nationwide Listeria monocytogenes outbreak,” the FDA reports. This is part of an ongoing outbreak that has resulted in 26 illnesses, 2 deaths, and 23 hospitalizations in 11 states over the past decade.
Find all of the info on this recent development, including what to do if you’re in possession of one of the recalled products, below.
Rizo-López Foods Dairy Recall
RLF, based in California, has recalled a wide variety of cheese, yogurt, and sour cream that were distributed to retailers nation wide, including Trader Joe’s and Costco. Other affect stores include El Super, Cardenas Market, Northgate Gonzalez, Superior Groceries, El Rancho, Vallarta, Food City, La Michoacana, and Numero Uno Markets.
The following products were recalled from Costco:
- Chicken Street Taco Kit - item #11545, purchased between 01/25/24, and 02/06/24
- Rojo’s 6 Layer Dip - item #1345308, purchased between 12/27/23, and 02/06/24
- Don Pancho Cilantro Lime Crema - item #1341779, purchased between 01/19/24, and 02/06/24
- Don Pancho Crema Trio Pack - item #1796365, purchased between 01/17/24, and 02/06/24
- Southwest Chicken Wrap with Sauce - item #29433, purchased between 10/27/23, and 02/06/24
- Ready Pac Bistro Queso Crunch Salad Kit - UPC 077745256139, use-by date between 01/13/24 and 02/18/24
The following products were recalled from Trader Joe’s:
- Chicken Enchiladas Verde - SKU 58292
- Cilantro Salad Dressing - SKU 36420
- Elote Chopped Salad Kit - SKU 74768
- Southwest Salad - SKU 56077
The products were distributed under a number of other brand names, including:
- Tio Francisco
- Don Francisco
- Rizo Bros
- Rio Grande
- Food City
- El Huache
- La Ordena
- San Carlos
- Campesino
- Santa Maria
- Dos Ranchitos
- Casa Cardenas
- 365 Whole Foods Market
If you've recently purchased any dairy products from El Super, Cardenas Market, Northgate Gonzalez, or similar stores, it's crucial to check your fridge and freezer for the recalled items. You can find a complete list of recalled products here. Don't take any chances–when in doubt, dispose of any item that may be part of the recall immediately. The FDA also recommends that you properly clean and sanitize and surface the product has touched.
If you have any questions or concerns, they've set up a hotline that's available 24/7. Just dial 1-833-296-2233 to get the information you need.
In January 2024, a sample of Rizo Bros Aged Cojita tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, presenting the same strain of listeria that has led to 26 illnesses since 2014. The most recent case was in December 2023.
Listeria can lead to serious and even fatal infections, especially for vulnerable populations like young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea, headaches, and more.
Staying on top of recalls like this is a crucial part of keeping you and your family safe and healthy. Other recent recalls include spinach, also due to listeria, and potentially contaminated baby formula.
Stay informed, stay safe, and keep your refrigerator Listeria-free!
READ MORE: Ice Cream Is Being Pulled From Shelves In New York Due To ‘Life-Threatening’ Allergens