Cheese recalled in 5 states after Florida finds possibly deadly form of E. coli

Jan. 26--Quesos La Ricura recalled 12-ounce packs of Queso Cotija in five states after turned up a potentially deadly form of E. coli in a sample that was for sale.

The form of E. coli found produces Shiga toxin. So, in addition to diarrhea and bloody solid waste, people can get hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a form of kidney failure that can kill. As with salmonella and listeria, children under 5 and senior citizens are the most vulnerable to the worst effects.

The cheese comes on yellow styrofoam, wrapped in plastic. The label reads "Quesos La Ricura Queso Cotija, Cotija Cheese aged over 60 days." The sell by date will be "May 20, 2020-3/May 20, 2020-4."

Florida Department of Agriculture testing found the E. coli in a retail sample. The other states affected are New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Georgia. Consumers should return the cheese to the store where it was bought for a full refund.

Consumers with questions can call Quesos La Ricura at 516-932-5756, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Eastern time.

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