The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a Class I recall—the most serious risk category—for multiple Pecorino Romano cheese products after confirming contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a potentially fatal foodborne pathogen. The warning applies to cheeses distributed nationwide and urges consumers to take immediate action to avoid serious health risks, according to the FDA.

The recall, originally announced in late November by the Ambriola Company, was escalated on January 6 following additional testing that detected Listeria in affected batches. Although no illnesses linked to the recall have been reported so far, health officials stress that Listeria infections, while relatively rare, are among the deadliest foodborne diseases, particularly for pregnant women, older adults, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems.

Recalled Pecorino Romano Products

Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators for the following affected products, which were distributed between November 3 and November 20, 2025:

• Boar’s Head Grated Pecorino Romano (6-oz cup) – Lot: 1000572486

• Boar’s Head Pecorino Romano Grated (5-lb bag) – Lots: 1000570093, 1000570738

• Pinna Grated Pecorino Romano (2/10, 10-lb bags) – Lot: 1000572486

• Sam’s Pecorino Romano Grated (1.5-lb bag) – Lots: 1000570107, 1000570766, 1000572513

• Ambriola Piccante Grated Pecorino Romano (5-lb & 10-lb bags) – Lots: 1000572981, 1000570737, 1000570092, 1000572487

• Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano (4-oz & 8-oz cups) – Multiple lots including 1000572472, 1000570734–0736

• Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano (5-lb & 10-lb bags) – Multiple lots including 1000570724–0727

• Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano Shipper (48/8-oz cups) – Lots: 1000570750, 1000572499, 1000572514

Updated distribution data confirms the products were shipped to 20 states, including California, Texas, New York, Florida, Illinois, and Pennsylvania.

What Consumers Should Do

Anyone who has purchased the recalled cheese should not consume it under any circumstances. The FDA advises discarding the product immediately or returning it to the place of purchase for a refund. Surfaces and containers that may have come into contact with the cheese should also be thoroughly cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.

Health experts warn that Listeriosis symptoms may appear days or even weeks after exposure. Signs include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and seizures. Pregnant women may experience mild flu-like symptoms, but the infection can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. More details on symptoms and prevention are available via the CDC.

Why This Matters

Class I recalls are issued only when there is a reasonable probability that consuming the product could cause serious health consequences or death. While no cases have yet been linked to this recall, authorities emphasize that early awareness and compliance are critical in preventing outbreaks. The affected brands, including popular retail labels such as Boar’s Head, are widely consumed, heightening the urgency of public attention.

Consumers are urged to remain vigilant, share this information with others, and monitor official FDA updates as the investigation continues.