Southwest Montana News

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has announced a nationwide voluntary recall by Rizo Lopez Foods, Inc. due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination in several dairy products. These products were available at Costco, Albertsons, Safeway, and Whole Foods locations in Montana.

Dr. Maggie Cook-Shimanek, Public Health Physician at DPHHS, advised consumers: “Our message to Montanans is to take time to check if these products are in their possession, and if so, discard them.”

Listeria monocytogenes can lead to severe infections in vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Healthy individuals may experience short-term symptoms like fever and nausea. Pregnant women are particularly at risk as the infection can cause miscarriages or stillbirths.

To date, 26 illnesses have been linked to the recalled products across the country, resulting in 23 hospitalizations and two fatalities. No cases have been reported in Montana.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been informed of further recalls involving products containing the affected dairy items from Rizo Lopez Foods, Inc.

Among the recalled items sold in Montana are Simply Fresh Rojo’s Black Bean 6- and 7-Layer Dip from Costco; Fresh Creative Foods cremas and dressings from Costco, Albertsons, and Safeway; and 365 Whole Foods Market ricotta cheese from Whole Foods.

In January 2024, a sample of Rizo Bros Aged Cotija tested positive for Listeria during testing by Hawaii's State Department of Health. Consequently, Rizo Lopez Foods initiated a voluntary recall on January 11 for one batch of this cheese.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) along with the FDA reopened their investigation after new illness reports emerged last December. Analysis confirmed that the strain found matches that causing current illnesses.

Rizo Lopez Foods expanded its recall on February 5 following ongoing investigations. The FDA advises against consuming or selling any recalled cheeses or related products made by Rizo Lopez Foods.

Consumers should inspect their refrigerators for these items and dispose of them safely. They may also return them to stores for refunds. It is crucial for consumers and businesses who handled these products to thoroughly clean surfaces to prevent cross-contamination since Listeria can persist at cold temperatures.