Cotija Cheese Recalled Over Staphylococcus

WASHINGTONConsumers in Queens County, N.Y., have been warned not to eat the recently recalled Queso Cotija cheese" made by Mexicali Cheese Corp., based in Woodhaven, N.Y., because it may be contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced.

The recall involves Mexicali Cheese Corp. brand grated Cotija style cheese packaged in 14-ounce clear plastic packages with a plant code of #36-0128 and a "sell by 102910." The products were distributed to retail outlets in Queens, N.Y.

The recall was initiated after the company was notified that a routine sample of the cheese tested positive for high levels of Staphylococcus aureus. The recalled cheese was grated from a larger wheel of cheese that remained at the plant and was disposed of by the manufacturer.

Staphylococcus aureus can cause rapid food-poisoning symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, retching, abdominal cramping and prostration. In more severe cases, headache, muscle cramping and transient changes in blood pressure and pulse may occur.

Click here to view the entire recall.