FDA, CDC Investigate Deadly Listeria Cheese Outbreak

A Listeria outbreak linked to Rizo-López Foods cheese has sickened 26 people in 11 states, including two deaths in California and Texas, according to the CDC. 

According to the CDC and FDA, as of Feb. 6, Listeria cases linked to the outbreak have been reported in 11 states: Arizona (4), California (8), Colorado (4), Florida (1), Georgia (1), Nevada (1), North Carolina (1), Oregon (1), Tennessee (2), Texas (2) and Washington (1).

The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, have connected this multi-year, multistate outbreak to queso fresco and cotija cheeses manufactured by Rizo-López Foods of Modesto, Calif. The outbreak includes cases dating back to 2014 and is ongoing. CDC investigated the outbreak in 2017 and 2021.

In January, a sample of Rizo Bros Aged Cotija tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes during sampling conducted by the Hawaii State Department of Health’s Food and Drug Branch. In response to that finding, Rizo-López Foods voluntarily recalled one batch of Rizo Bros Aged Cotija Mexican Grating Cheese (8 oz.) on Jan. 11.

CDC and FDA reopened the investigation in January after new illnesses were reported in December 2023 and whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis of the cotija cheese sample showed that it is the same strain of Listeria that is causing illnesses in this outbreak. FDA initiated an on-site inspection at Rizo-López Foods. The inspection is ongoing; however, an environmental sample collected during that inspection tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, and WGS analysis of the sample showed that it is the same strain that is causing illnesses in the outbreak.

In response to the investigation, Rizo-López Foods recalled all sell by dates of its dairy products on Feb. 5. Recalled products include cheese, yogurt and sour cream sold under the brand names Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo Bros, Rio Grande, Food City, El Huache, La Ordena, San Carlos, Campesino, Santa Maria, Dos Ranchitos, Casa Cardenas and 365 Whole Foods Market. The firm has temporarily ceased the production and distribution of these products.

The law firm Marler Clark, Inc. is also investigating the outbreak.

“In the U.S., there are an estimated 255 deaths due to Listeria monocytogenes every year, and a case fatality rate of 15-30%,” said attorney William Marler. “Due to the fatality rate and severe complications, Listeria is a pathogen of significant public health concern. Companies that manufacture high risk foods need to do a far better job at eliminating the risk of a resident Listeria bacteria.”