DPI Specialty Foods of Tualatin, OR is recalling Mauri Brand Gorgonzola cheese because it may be contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteria (E. coli O157:H7), the FDA announced today.
E. coli O157:H7 causes a diarrheal illness, often with bloody stools. Although most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young children and the elderly. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.
Mauri Brand Gorgonzola was sold in Costco Wholesale Stores within the state of Colorado.
Mauri Brand Gorgonzola cheese is packaged in clear plastic in approximately 1 lb. size wedges. The recalled cheese can be identified by the following information contained on a white sticker on the package: "DISTRIBUTED BY DPI Specialty Foods Tualatin, OR, ITALY 34449" with sell by dates of "01/2/11" through "01/27/11".
As of Friday, November 12, 2010, the Centers for Disease Control have not received any reports of illnesses from this cheese. Additional testing will indicate whether this bacterial strain is linked to illnesses.
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product was contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. Further investigation is continuing to determine the source of contamination.
Consumers who have purchased Mauri Gorgonzola with sell by dates of 01/02/11 through 01/27/11 are urged to return it to the Costco Wholesale location for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact DPI Specialty Foods at 1-800-597-3876.
