Two major cheese recalls are currently underway across the United States, affecting millions of bags of shredded and grated cheese sold at major retailers. The recalls were issued for two different reasons: potential metal contamination in shredded cheese produced by Great Lakes Cheese Co. and possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination in grated Pecorino Romano imported by the Ambriola Company. With many of these cheeses carrying sell-by dates well into 2026, consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers immediately.
Great Lakes Cheese Co., based in Hiram, Ohio, has recalled approximately 1.5 million bags of shredded cheese because certain products may contain metal fragments introduced through supplier raw materials. The recall, reclassified by the FDA as a Class II recall, spans dozens of brands including Borden, Great Value, Happy Farms (Aldi), Publix, Food Lion, Sprouts, Stater Bros., and many more. Products include mozzarella, Italian blend, pizza blends, and various mixed shredded cheeses.
These cheeses were distributed widely across the U.S., covering more than 35 states and Puerto Rico. Consumers are advised to stop using any listed products and refer to the FDA’s full recall table to verify UPC codes and best-by dates.
While Class II recalls indicate that the likelihood of serious harm is low, metal fragments in food can still cause injury. Even small pieces can lead to cuts within the mouth, dental damage, internal injury, or gastrointestinal bleeding if swallowed. The risk may be low but is not negligible, especially for children, older adults, and individuals with swallowing difficulties. Any consumer who suspects ingestion of contaminated cheese and experiences pain, bleeding, or discomfort should consult a healthcare provider.
The Ambriola Company has issued a nationwide recall of several grated Pecorino Romano cheese products after routine testing detected Listeria monocytogenes in select lots. Additional products processed at the same New Jersey facility were also recalled out of caution. Brands include Locatelli, Boar’s Head, Member’s Mark, Ambriola, and Pinna, with products sold in cups, bags, and bulk containers.
The affected cheeses were shipped between November 3 and November 20, 2025, and no illnesses have been reported so far.
Listeria is a particularly concerning pathogen because it can cause severe illness in vulnerable groups. In healthy individuals, infection may lead to short-lived symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, nausea, abdominal pain, stiffness, and diarrhea. However, for older adults, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems, the bacteria pose a far greater risk. Listeria infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening illness in newborns. Because Listeria can grow at refrigeration temperatures, contaminated cheese can remain hazardous for weeks.
Consumers are urged not to consume any recalled shredded or grated cheese. Products can be discarded or returned to the place of purchase for a refund. Anyone who develops symptoms after eating a recalled cheese product should contact a healthcare provider immediately, especially if they fall into a high-risk category.
Ambriola has paused production while sanitation procedures and facility conditions are reviewed. Great Lakes Cheese Co. continues cooperating with the FDA on the metal contamination investigation.
