Fresno Dairy Farm Linked to E. Coli Outbreak, Disputes Claims

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Federal health officials are investigating a growing E. Coli outbreak linked to Raw Farm, a major raw dairy producer in Fresno, California. However, the company is strongly disputing the claims, stating that 100% of their test results have been negative.

Why it matters

Raw dairy products have been associated with a higher risk of foodborne illnesses like E. Coli. This outbreak could have serious public health implications if the source is confirmed, especially since Raw Farm supplies cheese to popular natural food retailer Erewhon.

The details

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have opened an investigation into the E. Coli outbreak, which has already sickened dozens of people across multiple states. Raw Farm, which bills itself as the country's largest raw dairy producer, supplies cheese and other products to high-end natural food stores like Erewhon, where a $16 raw milk cheese has been pulled from shelves.

• The E. Coli outbreak was first detected in early March 2026.
• Raw Farm's $16 raw milk cheese was removed from Erewhon stores on March 25, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Federal health authorities continue to investigate the source and scope of the E. Coli outbreak, while Raw Farm maintains its products are safe.