Federal health officials are investigating a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections tied to RAW FARM-brand raw cheddar cheese, with nine people sickened so far and more than half of the cases involving children under 5.
The illnesses were reported from California, Florida, and Texas, according to data released by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Illness onset dates range from September 1, 2025, to February 20, 2026.
Three people have been hospitalized, including one who developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious complication that can cause kidney failure. No deaths have been reported.
Of the eight patients or their caregivers interviewed by investigators, all reported consuming raw dairy products in the week before they became ill. Seven had brand information available, and all seven said they had eaten or been served RAW FARM-brand raw dairy. Five of those people reported consuming RAW FARM-brand raw cheddar cheese in 2026. Two others had reported drinking RAW FARM-brand raw milk in 2025; that product is no longer on the market.
The cheese, sold nationwide in block and shredded forms, has been available at retailers, including Sprouts Farmers Market and H-E-B. Officials said other stores may carry it as well.
In a previous update on the product investigation, the FDA said it had recommended that RAW FARM LLC voluntarily remove its raw cheese products from the market, but the firm declined to do so.
Symptoms of E. coli infection typically appear 3 to 9 days after eating contaminated food and can include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea that may be bloody, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Some infections lead to life-threatening conditions such as hemolytic uremic syndrome, high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, or neurologic problems.
The FDA has begun an on-site inspection at RAW FARM, LLC in coordination with state partners. No E. coli has been detected in tested samples of the cheddar cheese from the relevant time period, the agency said. Whole-genome sequencing has shown that bacteria from sick people are genetically closely related, indicating a common source.
The outbreak remains ongoing. Officials advised consumers, restaurants, and retailers who have RAW FARM-brand raw cheddar cheese to discard it and thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that came in contact with the product. Anyone who ate the cheese and develops symptoms should contact a health care provider right away.
The FDA said it will update the advisory as more information becomes available.