Home / Health / Raw Cheese Outbreak: Kids Hit Hard by E. coli
Raw Cheese Outbreak: Kids Hit Hard by E. coli
16 Mar
Summary
- Seven people sickened by E. coli in three states.
- Young children, under 3, are disproportionately affected.
- Company Raw Farm declined to recall cheese products.
Federal health officials have reported an E. coli outbreak affecting at least seven individuals in three states, with young children being particularly vulnerable. The illnesses, occurring between September 2025 and mid-February 2026, have been linked to raw milk cheddar cheese produced by California-based Raw Farm.
Despite the U.S. Food and Drug Administration identifying Raw Farm's cheese as the likely source, the company has refused a voluntary recall. Owner Mark McAfee stated that no pathogens have been found in their products and disputed the genetic link to illnesses, calling the outbreak announcement premature.
Two individuals have been hospitalized as a result of the E. coli infections. Health authorities are continuing their investigation to pinpoint the source of contamination and determine if other products are involved.
