Raw Dairy Company Recalls Cheese Amid E. Coli Outbreak

Owner disputes FDA's claims that his products are to blame for illnesses

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:18am

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A translucent X-ray photograph showing the intricate internal structure of a wedge of raw cheddar cheese, with glowing ghostly lines defining the cheese's texture and composition against a dark background, conceptually illustrating the hidden complexities behind a food safety investigation.An X-ray view of raw cheddar cheese reveals the internal structure at the heart of a foodborne illness outbreak.Fresno Today

A raw dairy company in Fresno, California has recalled several cheddar cheese products after an E. coli outbreak sickened nine people, including seven in California. However, the owner of Raw Farm contends his cheese is not the cause and claims federal authorities are unfairly targeting his business.

Why it matters

Raw milk products have faced increased scrutiny in recent years due to concerns over foodborne illnesses, leading to stricter regulations. This case highlights the ongoing tensions between raw dairy producers and public health officials over the safety of unpasteurized products.

The details

Raw Farm recalled its original and jalapeno cheddar cheeses in shredded and block form after nine people fell ill with E. coli between September 2025 and February 2026. Five of the affected individuals were confirmed to have consumed Raw Farm's raw cheddar cheese, while two others drank the company's raw milk. Over half the cases involved children under 5 years old. No pathogens have been found in the recalled cheese, but the company issued the recall 'in the interest of public health and safety'.

  • The E. coli outbreak occurred between September 1, 2025 and February 20, 2026.
  • Raw Farm issued the recall earlier this month.

The players

Raw Farm

A raw dairy company in Fresno, California that produces raw milk, cheese, and other products.

Aaron McAfee

The president and owner of Raw Farm, who contends his company's products are not to blame for the E. coli outbreak.

U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)

The federal agency that repeatedly recommended Raw Farm issue a recall of its products.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

The federal agency that provided a statement regarding the ongoing investigation into the E. coli outbreak.

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What they’re saying

“We effectively were guilty until proven innocent.”

— Aaron McAfee, President and Owner, Raw Farm

“From our lens, some of their decisions have just been completely unfair.”

— Aaron McAfee, President and Owner, Raw Farm

“The investigation is ongoing. FDA is working with state partners to collect and analyze samples, collaborating with CDC on reported cases and has issued an outbreak advisory to inform consumers, restaurants, and retailers of the current facts. As new evidence emerges, FDA will continue to update the public and evaluate all potential tools to further protect consumers ...”

— U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

What’s next

The FDA and state health authorities will continue investigating the E. coli outbreak and analyzing samples to determine the source. Raw Farm has stated it reserves the right to dispute being the cause of the illnesses.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between raw dairy producers and public health officials over the safety of unpasteurized products. It also raises questions about the regulatory power and decision-making processes of federal agencies when investigating foodborne illness outbreaks.