Several brands of Pecorino Romano cheese, including products sold under Boar’s Head and Locatelli labels, are being recalled nationwide due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recalls, announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), affect a range of grated and pre-cut cheese products produced by Ambriola Company.
The risk is serious because Listeria can cause listeriosis, a foodborne illness particularly dangerous for pregnant people, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. While most healthy adults experience only mild symptoms if infected, listeriosis can lead to severe complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or even death in vulnerable populations.
Affected Products
The recall covers multiple product codes and expiration dates. Key items include:
- Boar’s Head Grated Pecorino Romano Cheese: 6 oz packages with item code 858 and sell-by dates from 11/21/25 to 3/12/26.
- FS Grated Romano Cheese: 6 oz packages with item code 15119 and sell-by dates from 11/21/25 to 3/12/26.
- Locatelli Pecorino Romano Grated: 4 oz packages with expiration dates of 05/03/26, 05/10/26, and 05/17/26.
- Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano: 8 oz packages with expiration dates from 04/06/26 to 05/17/26.
- Member’s Mark Pecorino Romano Bag: 1.5 lb bags with expiration dates of 03/25/26, 03/30/26, and 04/05/26.
- Boar’s Head EverRoast Chicken Caesar Salad and Wrap: Recalled deli items with best-by dates from 11/9/2025 to 11/22/2025.
Ambriola also recalled cheeses sold by the pound, including Locatelli and Ambriola Grated Pecorino Romano varieties. Boar’s Head has withdrawn all Ambriola products sold under its label as a precautionary measure.
What to Do If You Have Recalled Cheese
The FDA advises consumers to discard any recalled products immediately. Do not consume them, even if they appear fresh. Thoroughly clean any surfaces or utensils that may have come into contact with the cheese to prevent further contamination.
If you purchased deli items with the specified best-by dates, they should also be discarded. Boar’s Head has halted purchases from Ambriola and is removing affected products from retail distribution.
Listeriosis: Understanding the Threat
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can survive in refrigerated environments, making it particularly challenging to eliminate. Symptoms of listeriosis vary depending on the individual’s health status.
In high-risk groups, invasive listeriosis can cause:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Seizures
If you are pregnant or immunocompromised and experience flu-like symptoms after consuming potentially contaminated food, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications.
No illnesses have been reported yet in connection with these recalls, but the FDA urges caution. Consumers can return recalled products to their place of purchase for a refund.
This recall underscores the importance of food safety vigilance and the potential risks associated with bacterial contamination in processed foods. Consumers should stay informed about product recalls and take appropriate measures to protect their health.
