A major food safety alert is underway as more than 1.5 million bags of shredded cheese have been recalled across 31 states and Puerto Rico. The shredded cheese recall was initiated after metal fragments were found in certain shredded-cheese products distributed to major U.S. retailers. With the recall expanding and new details emerging, consumers are being urged to check their refrigerators immediately.
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What Sparked the Recall
The voluntary recall began after routine safety checks identified the possibility of metal fragments in raw materials used to produce several shredded-cheese varieties. The recall was later elevated to a Class II classification, indicating that consuming the affected products could cause temporary or medically reversible health issues.
So far, no injuries have been reported. However, officials warn that metal fragments in food can pose serious risks, including cuts to the mouth or throat, dental damage, or injury to the digestive tract.
Products Included in the Recall
The recall spans multiple types of shredded cheese sold under several store-brand labels. The affected products include:
- Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Shredded Cheese
- Italian-Style Shredded Cheese Blends
- Pizza-Style Shredded Cheese Blends
- Mozzarella & Provolone Shredded Cheese Blends
- Mozzarella & Parmesan Shredded Cheese Blends
Package sizes vary from small eight-ounce consumer bags to large multi-pound bags used by retailers and food-service suppliers.
Brands affected include store-brand products commonly found at national chains. Distribution covered a wide region, with recalled cheese sold in states including Florida, California, Texas, Illinois, New York, Ohio, Georgia, Arizona, Washington, Virginia, North Carolina, and many more.
Why the Recall Matters
Metal contamination in food is considered a serious health hazard. Even small fragments can cause:
- Cuts or injuries to the mouth and throat
- Choking risks
- Damage to teeth or dental work
- Internal injuries if swallowed
These risks make it essential for consumers to stop using any recalled cheese immediately. While no illnesses have been reported, medical experts strongly advise against consuming any product connected to the recall.
How to Check Your Cheese
Consumers should inspect shredded cheese purchased in recent weeks, paying close attention to product labels, package sizes, and any identifying codes. If the product matches the type and brand included in the recall, it should be discarded or returned to the store for a refund.
Signs that the product may fall under the recall include:
- Store-brand mozzarella or Italian-style blends
- Pizza-style shredded cheese
- Combination cheeses like mozzarella-provolone or mozzarella-parmesan
- Bags purchased from large national retailers
If in doubt, consumers are encouraged to treat the product as part of the recall to avoid risk.
Retailer Actions
Large retailers have already pulled the affected items from shelves and notified customers where direct purchase records allow. Many stores are offering full refunds for returned products, even without a receipt. The company responsible for the recalled cheese is working with federal officials to ensure that remaining products are identified and removed from distribution.
Growing Attention on Food Safety
This recall is one of several major food safety alerts issued in recent months, highlighting increasing vigilance around foreign-material contamination and production-line risks. With the holiday season approaching and demand for dairy products rising, regulators emphasize the importance of careful product checks at home.
Food safety advocates encourage shoppers to regularly review recall announcements, especially for frequently purchased staples like dairy, snacks, and ready-to-eat foods.
What Consumers Should Do Next
To stay safe, consumers are advised to:
- Check all shredded cheese purchased in recent weeks.
- Stop using any cheese that matches the recall description.
- Dispose of the product or return it for a refund.
- Seek medical care if any unusual symptoms occur after consumption.
Because the recall is ongoing, additional updates may be released as inspections continue and more affected batches are identified.
Have you found any of the recalled shredded cheese in your kitchen? Share your experience or stay tuned as we track new updates in this developing food-safety alert.
