Certain cottage cheese products under the Great Value brand are being recalled from Walmart stores across 24 states due to potential health risks associated with insufficient pasteurization of liquid dairy ingredients. This issue was identified by Saputo Cheese USA Inc. during a troubleshooting exercise involving pasteurization, conducted in collaboration with the California Department of Food and Agriculture.
The recall specifically affects Great Value cottage cheese sold in white tubs with white lids, which were distributed to Walmart locations and distribution centers between February 17 and February 20. The states impacted by this recall include Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
While no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled products, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cautioned that improperly pasteurized dairy can pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Following the identification of the pasteurization issue, the affected pasteurizer has been repaired and verified by California food safety officials. The FDA has confirmed that no other products from the Saputo facility are affected by this recall. Consumers who may have purchased the recalled cottage cheese are advised not to consume the products and to follow the guidance provided by the FDA regarding the recall.