MODESTO, Calif. (February 5, 2024) – Rizo Lopez Foods, Inc. is proactively recalling a wide range of its dairy products, sold under various brand names, due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This action comes as a response to concerns raised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), linking Rizo Lopez Foods to a nationwide Listeria monocytogenes outbreak.
The recall affects various cheeses, yogurts, and sour creams manufactured by Rizo Lopez Foods. These products have been distributed across the nation through Rizo Lopez Foods’ network and various distributors. They were also available at retail deli counters in numerous stores, including but not limited to El Super, Cardenas Market, Northgate Gonzalez, Superior Groceries, El Rancho, Vallarta, Food City, La Michoacana, and Numero Uno Markets. Consumers who have recently purchased dairy products from these or similar retailers are urged to check if they have any recalled items.
The products under recall from Rizo Lopez Foods encompass a variety of brands including Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo Bros, Rio Grande, Food City, El Huache, La Ordena, San Carlos, Campesino, Santa Maria, Dos Ranchitos, Casa Cardenas, and even 365 Whole Foods Market. This extensive list highlights the widespread reach of Rizo Lopez Foods products and the importance of consumer vigilance.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause serious infection, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. While healthy individuals might experience short-term symptoms like high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, Listeria infection poses a significant risk to pregnant women, potentially leading to miscarriages and stillbirths.
The recall is a precautionary measure based on collaborative investigations by the CDC and FDA, which have identified Rizo Lopez Foods as a potential source of the ongoing Listeria monocytogenes outbreak across the country. This outbreak investigation underscores the critical importance of food safety and the rigorous standards that food manufacturers like Rizo Lopez Foods must adhere to.
The recalled Rizo Lopez Foods dairy products include a wide assortment of cheeses such as Cheddar, Cotija, Freir, Fresco, Monterey, Oaxaca, Panela, and Paneer, alongside yogurt and sour cream. It is crucial for consumers to identify if they possess any of these recalled products. Detailed product-specific identification information is available to help consumers accurately check their food items against the recall list.
Consumers are strongly advised to examine their refrigerators and freezers immediately for any of the listed Rizo Lopez Foods products. If any recalled product is found, it should be disposed of promptly. For any queries or concerns, consumers can contact Rizo Lopez Foods directly at 1-833-296-2233, a dedicated line that is monitored 24 hours a day to assist with recall-related inquiries.
This voluntary recall by Rizo Lopez Foods is being conducted with the full knowledge and cooperation of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA has provided lists of retail locations that may have received the recalled dairy products from Rizo Lopez Foods. However, it is essential to use the detailed product identification information to confirm if a specific product is part of the recall, rather than solely relying on retail location lists, as these lists may not be exhaustive or entirely precise.
For comprehensive lists of affected retail establishments and expanded product details, consumers can refer to the links provided by the FDA and Rizo Lopez Foods. These resources offer vital information to help consumers navigate the recall effectively and ensure their safety.
Rizo Lopez Foods is committed to food safety and is taking this recall very seriously to protect public health. Consumers are urged to take immediate action to check for and dispose of any recalled products to prevent potential illness associated with Listeria monocytogenes.
Company Contact Information for Rizo Lopez Foods Recall:
- Consumers: 1-833-296-2233
- Media: Daren Williams, 209-232-3703, dwilliams@rizolopez.com
