Walmart Cottage Cheese Recall: What You Demand to Know
A widespread recall has been issued for Great Value cottage cheese sold at Walmart stores across 24 states, raising concerns about potential health risks. The recall, initiated by manufacturer Saputo Cheese USA Inc., stems from the possibility that the cheese was not fully pasteurized, potentially exposing consumers to harmful bacteria. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the situation, including affected products, locations, symptoms to watch for, and what to do if you’ve purchased the recalled cheese.
What Products Are Affected?
The recall impacts several varieties of Great Value cottage cheese, all sold in white plastic tubs with white lids. Specifically, the following products are affected:
- Great Value Fat Free Slight 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 container, 24-ounce container, and 3-pound container)
Where Was the Recalled Cottage Cheese Sold?
The recalled cottage cheese was distributed to Walmart stores and distribution centers in the following 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
The affected products were sold between February 17 and February 20, 2026. [Source: USA Today]
Why Was the Cottage Cheese Recalled?
Saputo Cheese USA discovered the issue during routine “pasteurizer troubleshooting exercises.” Investigations revealed a possibility that liquid dairy ingredients used in the production of the cottage cheese were not fully pasteurized according to state regulatory standards. [Source: ABC News] The impacted pasteurizer has since been returned to normal function and verified by the California Department of Food and Agriculture.
What are the Risks of Consuming Unpasteurized Cheese?
Pasteurization is a critical process that eliminates harmful organisms responsible for diseases like listeriosis, typhoid fever, tuberculosis, diphtheria, Q fever, and brucellosis. [Source: Health.com] Consuming unpasteurized dairy products can lead to food poisoning, with symptoms varying depending on the specific bacteria involved.
Symptoms of Food Poisoning
If you’ve consumed the recalled cottage cheese and are experiencing any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
Most cases of food poisoning resolve within a week with rest and hydration. However, severe symptoms like high fever, severe diarrhea, or prolonged dehydration require immediate medical care.
What Should You Do If You Have Recalled Cottage Cheese?
If you have purchased any of the recalled Great Value cottage cheese products, do not consume them. You can either discard the product or return it to your local Walmart store for a full refund. [Source: Today.com]