Summary (tl;dr)

Over 1.5 million bags of shredded cheese have been recalled across 31 U.S. states and Puerto Rico due to potential contamination with metal fragments, posing a risk of injury to consumers.

Essential Background

The recall was initially issued in October by Great Lakes Cheese Co. Inc. based in Ohio, after the company identified a risk of metal fragments in its products, stemming from supplier raw materials. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) subsequently elevated this to a Class II recall on December 1, indicating that consumption of the affected products could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.

The Full Story

Currently, over 250,000 cases, amounting to more than 1.5 million bags of various shredded cheese products, are subject to the recall. These products, including mozzarella, Italian-style, and pizza-style cheese blends, were distributed under numerous private-label brands such as Happy Farms by Aldi, Good & Gather (Target), Great Value (Walmart), Publix, and others. The affected cheese bags have "best by" dates ranging from January to March 2026. Consumers are strongly advised not to consume these products and should either return them to the place of purchase or discard them immediately.

Why It Matters

The presence of metal fragments in food can lead to significant health hazards, including choking, damage to teeth, and lacerations or perforations of the mouth, throat, or digestive tract. Although no illnesses have been reported to date, the FDA's Class II classification highlights the potential for harm, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and older adults. This widespread recall underscores the importance of food safety and vigilance from both manufacturers and consumers.

Geographic Location

• Hiram, Ohio, United States (Headquarters of Great Lakes Cheese Co. Inc., manufacturer initiating the recall)
• United States (Distribution of recalled shredded cheese products across 31 states: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin)
• Puerto Rico (Distribution of recalled shredded cheese products)