On November 2, 2024, Savencia Cheese USA announced a voluntary recall of select soft-ripened cheeses, including brie and camembert, due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Distributed under brands like Aldi, La Bonne Vie, and Market Basket, these cheeses pose a risk of foodborne illness, particularly for vulnerable populations. This recall affects products manufactured at Savencia’s Lena facility and involves specific lots with distinct UPCs and best-by dates. Curious about the details? Read below to learn how to identify the recalled products and what to do next.
What happened?
Shoutout to cheese lovers! On November 2, the FDA announced that Savencia Cheese USA identified potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination during routine equipment testing at its Lena facility. This recall includes brands such as Aldi’s (Emporium Selection) and La Bonne Vie. While finished product testing showed no contamination, the company has taken proactive measures to ensure consumer safety.
Products Affected:
Brand | Product | Size | GTIN | UPC-A | UPC-B | Best By Date |
Emporium Selection | Brie | 12/8oz | 10041498111325 | 004149811132 | 041498111328 | 12/24/2024 |
Supreme Oval | Brie | 6/7oz | 10071448504211 | 007144850421 | 071448504214 | 12/24/2024 |
La Bonne Vie | Brie | 6/8oz | 10820581678538 | 12/24/2024 | ||
La Bonne Vie | Camembert | 6/8oz | 10820581678613 | 12/24/2024 | ||
Industrial | Brie | 12/8oz | 10077901005226 | 077901005229 | 12/24/2024 | |
Market Basket | Brie | 6/8oz | 10049705666309 | 004970566630 | 049705666302 | 12/24/2024 |
What caused the issue?
The root of the problem originates from processing equipment contamination detected during internal checks. Although no illnesses have been reported, Listeria monocytogenes can cause:
- Mild Symptoms: Fever, nausea, diarrhea.
- Severe Risks: Miscarriages in pregnant women, severe infections in the elderly or immunocompromised individuals.
Who’s at risk?
- Pregnant individuals
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
Here’s what you should do
If you purchased any of the recalled cheeses, here’s how to act:
- Check Your Label: Verify the UPC and best-by date.
- Stop Consumption: Do not eat the affected products.
- Get a Refund: Return the cheese to the store for a full refund.
- Reach Out:
- Consumer Relations: (800)-322-2743
- Email: [email protected].
Behind the brand
Headquartered in New Holland, Pa., Savencia Cheese USA is a renowned name in specialty cheese, offering diverse products under premium labels. Aldi has had food recalls on Listeria contamination in the past including its Season’s Choice brand of frozen Mixed Fruit and Tropical Blend Fruit in 2023 and Freshire Farms jalapenos, green peppers, and green beans in July 2024. The brand was also involved in a recall regarding sandwiches, wraps, salads, and frozen meals containing chicken products in October 2024. They also have had recalls due to undeclared milk allergens. La Bonne Vie has had the same food recall claim in September 2022 regarding its: La Bonne Vie Brie Round 14oz, La Bonne Vie Brie Triple Creme Round 8oz, and La Bonne Vie Camembert 8oz.
Other brands have also been wrapped around some cheesy recalls, such as Kraft Heinz announcing certain varieties of its cheese were potentially contaminated with plastic pieces in 2020, or Sargento recalling sliced and shredded cheeses for Listeria Monocytogenes. Brands such as Cypress Groves, Laura Chenel’s Chevre, and Horizon Organic’s goat cheese have faced similar issues.
Ensuring safe eats
Food recalls remind us why strict safety protocols are non-negotiable. Contaminations like this can disrupt supply chains and damage consumer trust, highlighting the need for reliable partners in sourcing quality ingredients.At Source86, we prioritize working with suppliers who lead the way in safe and sustainable production. Safe sourcing starts here—reach out today!
