Ten people have been infected in a recent E. coli outbreak linked to raw milk cheese, as reported by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC has issued a food safety alert advising consumers against consuming RAW FARM brand raw cheddar cheese in original and jalapeño flavors, which has been associated with the outbreak.

The outbreak has resulted in four hospitalizations and one case of hemolytic uretic syndrome, a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure. While no deaths have been reported, the CDC is actively investigating the situation.

Six of the affected individuals confirmed consuming RAW FARM brand raw cheddar cheese, prompting the company to collaborate with the US Food and Drug Administration and initiate a product recall.

RAW FARM has stated that the cheese is produced from whole raw milk, which is milk that has not undergone pasteurization. According to the CDC, unpasteurized products like raw milk can harbor harmful bacteria such as listeria, salmonella, and E. coli.

E. coli bacteria, which reside in the intestines of humans and animals, can cause symptoms such as cramps, bloody diarrhea, and kidney failure when exposed to the Shiga toxin-producing strain. The US sees approximately 265,000 cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli infections annually.

Consumers are urged to heed the CDC’s advice and refrain from consuming RAW FARM brand raw cheddar cheese until further notice. It is crucial to prioritize food safety and be aware of the potential risks associated with unpasteurized products.