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The boar’s head recall continues to draw national attention after several Pecorino Romano cheese items were voluntarily removed from shelves between November 24 and 25, 2025, due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The withdrawal follows a supplier’s test result indicating possible contamination in specific lots of grated Pecorino Romano used in Boar’s Head–branded products. As a precaution, retailers and foodservice distributors have removed the affected cheese and prepared foods containing it.
Table of Contents
What Was Recalled
The recall covers select Boar’s Head Pecorino Romano cheeses and prepared products that contained the ingredient. Confirmed details include:
- Products involved: Boar’s Head Grated Pecorino Romano (6-oz retail cups), food-service bags of grated Pecorino Romano, and a related Boar’s Head Pecorino Romano wedge withdrawn as a precaution.
- Date ranges: Affected best-by dates extend from late November 2025 through spring 2026, depending on the packaging and lot.
- UPC information: The 6-oz grated cheese UPC is among those identified by retailers and distributors as part of their removal and refund process.
Consumers are urged to check labels closely, as best-by dates and UPCs determine whether an item is part of the recall.
Where the Products Were Sold
Recalled items were distributed across multiple states through grocery chains and foodservice channels. Prepared salads, wraps, and other ready-to-eat items that included the grated Pecorino Romano were also withdrawn. Retailers participating in the withdrawal include major regional chains in the Northeast and Midwest, where the affected lots were primarily shipped.
Stores acted quickly by clearing shelves, notifying customers, and updating registers so recalled items could not be purchased.
Why Listeria Matters
Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a potentially serious infection. Key points about the risk:
- Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, and digestive issues.
- Severe outcomes can include bloodstream infections or meningitis.
- Pregnant people, older adults, newborns, and those with compromised immune systems are especially vulnerable.
- The bacteria can survive in refrigeration and persist on food-production surfaces.
Because even low levels of contamination can pose health risks to susceptible groups, companies and health officials treat potential Listeria issues with heightened caution.
Company and Regulatory Actions
The recall stemmed from a potential contamination finding in grated Pecorino Romano supplied for Boar’s Head products. Once the supplier identified the affected lots, a broader withdrawal was initiated downstream.
Boar’s Head removed all products connected to the identified batches, updated consumers through its food-safety channels, and worked with retail partners to ensure complete removal of affected inventory. The FDA published the recall details and coordinated notification procedures across distributors and stores.
Current Public Health Status
As of today, no illnesses have been linked to the recalled Boar’s Head Pecorino Romano cheese. Health authorities continue monitoring, but the withdrawal is considered precautionary. Consumers who may have eaten the cheese—especially those in high-risk groups—are encouraged to monitor their health if they consumed any product later determined to be part of the recall.
What Consumers Should Do
Shoppers are advised to take the following steps immediately:
- Inspect your refrigerator and pantry
Look for Boar’s Head Pecorino Romano grated cheese in 6-oz cups or food-service packaging. Verify best-by dates and UPCs. - Handle recalled items safely
Do not taste or attempt to judge safety by smell or appearance. Place recalled items in sealed bags before disposal, or return them to the retailer for a refund. - Monitor for symptoms
If someone at higher risk consumed recalled product, watch for fever, headache, muscle aches, gastrointestinal distress, or changes in balance.
Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms develop.
Timeline of Key Events
- Nov. 24–25, 2025: Supplier identifies positive test for Listeria monocytogenes in specific Pecorino Romano grate batches.
- Immediately after: Boar’s Head withdraws all related products; retailers remove impacted items from shelves.
- Following days: Stores notify shoppers, implement refund procedures, and update point-of-sale systems to block recalled UPCs.
Impact on Shoppers and Food Safety
This incident highlights how supplier-level quality checks play a crucial role in maintaining food safety. When a component ingredient tests positive for contamination, all products using that ingredient may be affected, even if no finished items show contamination themselves.
For shoppers, the recall serves as a reminder to routinely check recall updates, verify product codes, and stay vigilant—particularly when products involve ready-to-eat dairy items.
The strong response across the supply chain—supplier, brand, retailers, and regulators—shows how quickly recalls move once a contamination issue is flagged. These actions aim to protect consumers, reduce risks, and maintain the integrity of food-safety systems nationwide.
If you checked your products or have questions about this recall, share your experience in the comments below and help others stay informed.