Bentonville, Arkansas — A voluntary recall has been issued for certain Great Value cottage cheese products sold at Walmart stores in 24 states after a potential pasteurization issue raised health concerns.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Saputo Cheese USA Inc. initiated the recall following what the company described as a “pasteurizer troubleshooting exercise.”
While officials say no illnesses have been reported, the FDA warned that consuming products that are not fully pasteurized can pose a serious health risk.
Which Cottage Cheese Products Are Recalled?
The affected items were sold under the Great Value label in white plastic tubs with white lids. The “Best By” date is printed on the side of the lid, according to the FDA.
The recalled products include:
- Great Value Fat Free Small Curd Cottage Cheese (0% Milkfat), 24-ounce container
- Great Value Lowfat Small Curd Cottage Cheese (2% Milkfat), 24-ounce container
- Great Value Small Curd Cottage Cheese (4% Milkfat minimum), 16-ounce, 24-ounce and 3-pound containers
Consumers are urged to carefully check packaging and best-by dates.
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Where Were the Products Sold?
The recalled cottage cheese products were distributed to Walmart stores and distribution centers between Feb. 17 and Feb. 20 in the following 24 states:
Alaska
Alabama
Arkansas
Arizona
California
Colorado
Georgia
Iowa
Idaho
Illinois
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Missouri
Mississippi
Montana
New Mexico
Nevada
Oregon
Texas
Tennessee
Utah
Washington
Wyoming
Customers in these states are encouraged to verify whether they purchased one of the affected items.
What Is the Health Risk?
The FDA stated that consuming food that has not been properly pasteurized can potentially expose individuals to harmful bacteria.
Although no confirmed illnesses have been linked to the recalled products, officials emphasize that the recall is being conducted out of an abundance of caution.
What Should Consumers Do?
Consumers who purchased any of the affected cottage cheese products should:
- Not consume the product
- Dispose of it immediately
- Or return it to the Walmart store where it was purchased for a full refund
Customers with questions can also contact Walmart customer service or refer to the FDA recall notice for additional information.
The recall highlights the importance of monitoring food safety alerts and checking labels carefully, especially for refrigerated dairy products.
Did you purchase any of the recalled cottage cheese? Share your experience and check your fridge to stay safe.
