Clover Hill Dairy Recalls Cheese Due to Listeria Risk

On June 5, 2026, Clover Hill Dairy, located in Mechanicsville, Maryland, initiated a voluntary recall of its Soft Ricotta/Requeson Cheese. The recall was announced due to the potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a microorganism that poses significant health risks, particularly to young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Healthy individuals may experience short-term symptoms, but the infection can cause severe complications such as miscarriages in pregnant women.

The affected cheese products were distributed between May 4 and May 30, 2026, in North Carolina, New York, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and Washington, DC. Distribution channels included bulk distributors, retail stores, and direct consumer sales. The products were sold in retail packages of 10, 12, and 14 ounces under the Clover Hill Dairy brand, identifiable by plant number 24-128 on the label. Additionally, the cheese was available in bulk 5-gallon and 2-gallon buckets, which some distributors repackaged under various brand names such as KESSO and QUESOS LA RICURA.

The Maryland Department of Health alerted Clover Hill Dairy to the potential health risk, prompting the cessation of production and distribution of all cheese products. As of the announcement, eight cases of Listeria infections potentially linked to the cheese have been reported. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the FDA and the Maryland Department of Health, with investigations ongoing.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled cheese are advised to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. The company has apologized for any inconvenience caused and is committed to resolving the issue promptly. For further inquiries, consumers can contact the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission at 240-528-8850, extension 327.