The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7. As of March 14, 2026, a total of 7 confirmed infections have been reported across three states: CA (5), FL (1), and TX (1). Known illness onset dates range from September 1, 2025, to February 13, 2026. Whole genome sequencing analysis of E. coli isolates from ill people shows that they are all closely related genetically. This means that people in this outbreak are likely to share a common source of infection. Additionally, 4 of 7 cases are 3 years old or younger. Two patients have been hospitalized. No deaths or HUS cases have been reported. State and local public health officials have interviewed 3 ill people about food exposures of interest in this outbreak. All 3 people (100%) reported eating RAW FARM- brand raw cheddar cheese. State and local officials are working to gather additional data for the 4 other illnesses, including 2 illnesses that occurred in 2025. Epidemiologic evidence indicates that RAW FARM-brand raw cheddar cheese products made by RAW FARM, LLC, are the likely source of this outbreak. The FDA has recommended that RAW FARM, LLC voluntarily remove its raw cheese products from the market, and the firm has declined. The investigation is ongoing to determine the source of contamination and whether additional products are linked to illnesses. To date, to the FDA’s awareness, no RAW FARM-brand cheddar cheese products from this time period have tested positive for E. coli. As part of this investigation, state partners initiated the collection of product samples for testing and analysis, but results are not yet available. FDA will update this advisory should additional information become available. @ https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o157h7-raw-cheddar-cheese-march-2026?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
