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On June 4, 2026, the FDA published an outbreak investigation advisory linking Clover Hill Dairy requeson cheese to a multi-state Listeria monocytogenes outbreak [1]. On June 3, 2026, Clover Hill Dairy, LLC issued a voluntary recall of all of its requeson and soft ricotta products. The Maryland Department of Health has suspended Clover Hill Dairy’s operating license and issued a consumer advisory due to the public health risk.
What Products Are Affected?
The recall covers all requeson cheese manufactured by Clover Hill Dairy, LLC, including varieties with jalapeño and other flavors. Some products may have been relabeled under a different brand name when distributed — consumers should look for the Clover Hill Dairy manufacturer permit number “24-128” on product packaging to identify whether their cheese is included in the recall.
The recalled cheese was sold directly from Clover Hill Dairy’s retail market in Maryland, at farmers markets, and through third-party distributors, with confirmed distribution in Maryland, New York, and Virginia. Distribution to additional states cannot be ruled out, and the investigation is ongoing.
What Is the Hazard?
The recalled requeson cheese has been found to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacterium that can cause a serious infection called listeriosis. Listeria is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, adults aged 65 and older, and individuals with weakened immune systems — groups in which the infection can be life-threatening.
Symptoms of listeriosis typically appear within two weeks of consuming contaminated food but may develop as early as the same day or as late as 10 weeks after exposure. Mild symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, tiredness, vomiting, and diarrhea, while more severe cases can cause headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.
Incidents and Injuries
As of June 4, 2026, a total of eight people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported from three states — Maryland, New York, and Virginia. Seven of those individuals have been hospitalized, and one person has died. Illness onset dates range from March 6, 2023, to May 9, 2026, indicating the contamination has been affecting consumers for more than three years.
What Caused the Outbreak?
Investigators traced the outbreak to requeson cheese manufactured by Clover Hill Dairy after New York State health officials linked two family members who fell ill to cheese purchased from a retailer in Brentwood, New York. Laboratory testing confirmed that a sample of requeson repacked by the retailer tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, and whole genome sequencing confirmed the strain matched the outbreak strain.
A subsequent sample collected from an unopened 18-pound sealed bucket of requeson manufactured directly by Clover Hill Dairy also tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. Whole genome sequencing analysis on that sample is pending.
What Should Consumers Do?
Consumers are urged not to eat, sell, or serve any recalled Clover Hill Dairy requeson or soft ricotta cheese. Any recalled cheese should be discarded, and all surfaces and containers that may have come in contact with the cheese should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized — Listeria can survive at refrigerator temperatures and can spread to other foods and surfaces.
Consumers who experience symptoms of listeriosis should contact their healthcare provider immediately. To report a complaint or adverse event, consumers can visit the FDA’s Industry and Consumer Assistance page or call 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332).
Can I File a Lawsuit?
Consumers who became ill after eating recalled Clover Hill Dairy requeson cheese — or families of individuals who were hospitalized or died as a result of this outbreak — may have significant legal options. A class action lawsuit could allow affected individuals to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, wrongful death, and other related losses. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to learn more about your rights.
References
1. https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-listeria-monocytogenes-soft-cheese-june-2026