The cheese was distributed and sold at seven retail locations and at one restaurant on Eastern Long Island, New York. It was also served at one restaurant in Chicago, Illinois. The cheese comes in a clear plastic package marked with the “Mecox Sunrise” cheese label. All affected Mecox Sunrise cheese has been removed from all stores and restaurants as of the date of this recall announcement.
The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the New York State Agriculture and Markets Division of Milk Control. The production of this cheese has been suspended while the FDA, New York State Agriculture and Markets, and Mecox Bay Dairy investigate the problem.
If you purchased this cheese, do not eat it. Throw it away in a secure garbage can with a tight fitting lid, or take it back to the store where you bought it for a refund.
If you ate this cheese, monitor yourself for the symptoms of listeriosis for the next 70 days. That’s how long it can take before someone feels ill. Symptoms include high fever, stiff neck, nausea, abdominal pain, severe headache, and diarrhea. Pregnant women may think they have a mild case of the flu, but listeriosis can cause miscarriage and stillbirth. If you do feel ill in the next two months, see your doctor.
It’s also a good idea to clean out your refrigerator with a mild bleach solution to kill any bacteria that may be present. Listeria monocytogenes bacteria can grow at temperatures below 40°F, and freezing doesn’t destroy it. Wash your hands well with soap and water after cleaning and after handling this cheese.
