Cheese Recall in New York City

According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), a Brooklyn, NY-based company has recalled 2 of their cheese products due to possible contamination. They have also stopped production for the time being.

What is being recalled?
Cheese sold in the New York City Area and to Providence, Rhode Island.

What's the problem?
Upon testing the cheese, the Rhode Island Department of Health found the existence of Listeria monocytogenes in 2 of the company's products. This organism has the potential to cause serious and/or deadly infections in people, especially those with under-developed or weakened immune systems. Symptoms in healthy people may include high fever, nausea, stiffness, severe headache, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Pregnant women can suffer miscarriages and stillbirths. No illnesses have been reported yet.

Which specific cheese products are involved in this recall?
On August 24, 2010, the first cheese product to be recalled was Queso Fresco (Fresh White Cheese). It was sold to stores in New York City. It bears the brand name Queso El Azteca. It was sold in 14 oz. hard plastic containers with the expiration date Sept. 12, 2010. The UPC is "0 23986 92692 8." The company then expanded the recall on September 1, 2010 to include Requeson (Ricotta Cheese). It was sold to stores in New York City and Providence, RI. It also comes in a 14 oz. hard plastic container with the brand name Queso El Azteca. The expiration date is Sept. 19, 2010 and there is no UPC code available.

What do I do now?
If you bought one or both of the products described here, do not eat it! Return it immediately to the store you bought it from for a full refund. If you have any further questions, contact Azteca Linda Corp. at (718) 418-7459. If you feel you have become ill due to this product, see your doctor.

Sources:
FDA USDA