E. coli Outbreak Linked to California Raw Milk and Cheese Sickens 9

Two cases in California added to outbreak, with illnesses also reported in Texas and Florida

Mar. 27, 2026 at 5:18am

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Nine people, including children, have been sickened in an expanding outbreak of E. coli food poisoning tied to raw milk and cheddar cheese made with it from Raw Farm, a Fresno, California, producer, health officials said. Two cases in California were added to the outbreak, bringing the total number of ill people in that state to seven, with two others falling ill in Texas and Florida.

Why it matters

The outbreak highlights the risks associated with consuming unpasteurized dairy products, which can harbor dangerous bacteria like E. coli. While interest in raw milk has been rising, health officials continue to warn consumers about the potential dangers.

The details

Illnesses were confirmed from September to mid-February, with seven of eight people interviewed reporting consuming Raw Farm-brand products. Genetic sequencing of E. coli strains from sick people show they are all closely related, indicating a common source of infection. FDA officials previously advised Raw Farm to recall its raw milk cheddar cheese, but the company refused. No Raw Farm products have tested positive for E. coli so far.

  • The outbreak was first announced on March 15, 2026.
  • Two additional cases in California were added on March 26, 2026.
  • Illnesses were confirmed from September 2025 to mid-February 2026.

The players

Raw Farm

A Fresno, California-based producer of raw milk and cheddar cheese.

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The national public health institute in the United States.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The federal agency responsible for protecting public health by regulating food, drugs, and other products.

Rep. Rosa DeLauro

A member of the Congressional Food Safety Caucus who urged the FDA to use its mandatory recall authority to pull the Raw Farm products from stores.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.