In a significant update to ongoing food safety concerns, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed that samples of RAW FARM-brand Cheddar Cheese tested positive for E. coli. This discovery comes as federal agencies intensify their investigation into a series of illnesses that have sparked national concern, reaching consumers from coast to coast, including specialized health food markets right here in Western New York.
Discovery of a Distinct E. Coli Strain
While the presence of the bacteria was confirmed, FDA laboratory analysis revealed a complex layer to the investigation: the identified strain does not match the specific E. coli variant currently linked to the most recent multistate outbreak. Instead, forensic testing aligns this particular sample with a separate cluster of illnesses reported in 2025.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alongside state health departments, are now tracing the history of RAW FARM-brand products to determine if they played a role in that earlier outbreak. To date, the FDA has collected and scrutinized 19 distinct samples of the company’s cheddar cheese to ensure public safety and supply chain integrity.
RAW FARM Issues Recall “Under Protest”
The California-based producer has maintained a defiant stance since the FDA first flagged potential contamination. Despite publicly disputing the federal findings and denying that their raw dairy products caused any illnesses, RAW FARM recently initiated a voluntary recall of specific shredded and block cheeses.
Company owner Mark McAfee noted that the recall was enacted “under protest” to satisfy regulatory requests and allow for a path forward. McAfee had previously stated his opposition to recalling inventory without what he deemed “definitive evidence” linking his products directly to the current patient cluster.
Breaking Down the Outbreak Statistics
| Category | Details / Statistics |
|---|---|
| Reported Illnesses | 9 Cases |
| Affected States | California, Florida, Texas |
| Hospitalizations | 3 Individuals |
| Severe Complications | 1 case of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) |
| Product Status | Voluntary Recall (Shredded & Block) |
A History of Regulatory Friction
This incident is not the first time the producer has been at odds with national health guidelines. In 2024, RAW FARM raw cheddar was linked to another E. coli outbreak. In that instance, the company initially agreed to a product withdrawal but later controversially rescinded the recall, acting against the explicit advice of the CDC.
For Buffalo and Western New York residents who prioritize organic or raw dairy, Lake Erie Times recommends checking your refrigerator for any affected products. While no cases have been officially reported in the immediate Niagara Frontier during this specific window, the distribution of these products through online and specialty channels remains a point of caution.
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