FDA Escalates Cheese Recall To Highest Risk Level Amid Listeria Contamination Concerns

Federal health officials have elevated a nationwide cheese recall to the Food and Drug Administration’s most serious classification after routine testing uncovered contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause severe and potentially life-threatening illness. The recall, first announced in late November by The Ambriola Company, covers a range of grated Pecorino Romano cheese products distributed across the U.S. between November 3 and November 20, 2025. On January 6, 2026, the FDA reclassified the action as a Class I recall, its highest level, indicating a reasonable probability that consuming the affected products could result in serious health consequences or death.

The cheese was supplied to several well-known brands and sold in various package sizes—from small consumer cups to large bulk bags used in restaurants and foodservice. Affected brands include Locatelli, Member’s Mark (Sam’s Club), Pinna, Boar’s Head, and Ambriola’s own label. The recall spans at least 20 states, including major markets such as California, Texas, Florida, and New York. Listeria can cause a serious infection known as listeriosis. While healthy individuals may experience only mild symptoms—such as fever, muscle aches, nausea and diarrhea—the disease can be dangerous or fatal for older adults, pregnant women, infants and others with weakened immune systems. In pregnant individuals, listeriosis can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled Pecorino Romano products are urged not to eat them. Instead, they should either discard the cheese or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Anyone who believes they may have symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical care promptly.

Click HERE to view photos of all the recalled items.