Quesito El Establo Recalls Spanish Cheese (Quesito Colombiano) Over Rodent Activity

Quesito El Establo recall: quick summary

Quesito El Establo is recalling its Spanish Cheese (Quesito Colombiano) after FDA inspections revealed rodent activity and unsanitary conditions. The recall affects all cheese stamped with the date August 22, 2025, or earlier, which was distributed to Hispanic/Latino retail stores in Massachusetts. Because of the potential for Salmonella contamination, consumers are urged not to eat the cheese and instead return it for a refund or call 617-842-0513 for more information.

What happened?

On August 12, 2025, the FDA announced that Quesito El Establo is recalling its Spanish Cheese (Quesito Colombiano). During an inspection, the FDA found evidence of rodents and unsanitary conditions at the company’s facility in Salem, New Hampshire.

The affected product, sold in 1 lb packages wrapped in plastic and placed in Ziploc bags, was distributed to Hispanic/Latino retail stores in Massachusetts. Products stamped with expiration dates August 22, 2025, or earlier are included in the recall.

No illnesses have been reported so far.

Affected products

Brand	Product	Size	UPC	Best By Date	Issue	Affected States
Quesito El Establo	Spanish Cheese (Quesito Colombiano)	~1 lb	N/A	AUG 22 2025 or earlier	Rodent activity, possible Salmonella risk	Massachusetts

What caused the issue?

The recall was triggered by evidence of rodent activity at Quesito El Establo’s facility, which raises the risk of Salmonella contamination. This bacterium can cause fever, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, and in more severe cases may lead to complications such as endocarditis or arthritis. The groups most at risk include infants, young children, the elderly, pregnant people, cancer patients, organ transplant recipients, and others with weakened immune systems. While no illnesses have been reported to date, consumers should remain cautious and avoid consuming the recalled cheese.

Questions you might have

1. Is it safe to eat the cheese if it looks or smells fine?
   Nope. Rodent contamination isn’t always visible. Better safe than sorry.
2. What should I do if I have already eaten it?
   Watch for symptoms like fever, diarrhea, or stomach pain, and contact a healthcare provider if you feel unwell.
3. How can I tell if my cheese is part of the recall?
   Check the package. Any Spanish Cheese (Quesito Colombiano) dated August 22, 2025, or earlier is included.
4. Where was the recalled cheese sold?
   Only in Hispanic/Latino retail stores across Massachusetts.
5. Is this a nationwide recall?
   No, it is limited to Massachusetts at this time.
6. Have there been any reported illnesses?
   Not yet, and hopefully it stays that way.
7. Why are rodents such a big deal?
   Aside from being gross, they can carry Salmonella, which makes food unsafe.
8. Can I get a refund without a receipt?
   Yes. You can return the cheese to the store even if you don’t have proof of purchase.
9. What is the company doing about this?
   Quesito El Establo has stopped production and distribution while the FDA continues its investigation.
10. Who can I contact for more information?
    Call 617-842-0513 (Mon–Sat, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. EST).

Here’s what you should do

• Do not eat the cheese.
• Check the label for “AUG 22 2025 or earlier.”
• Identify by packaging: ~1 lb, plastic wrap + Ziploc bag, blue cow sticker.
• Contact 617-842-0513 for questions.
• Return to the store for a full refund.

Behind the brand

Quesito El Establo, based in Salem, New Hampshire, specializes in producing Hispanic-style cheeses for local retail markets. This recall highlights challenges in maintaining safe food production practices when proper sanitation is not followed.

Other relevant recalls

• Fuentes Farms recalls fresh cucumbers over Salmonella contamination risk
• Crystal Creamery recalls 92,594 lbs of dry milk over Salmonella risk
• Darwin’s Natural Pet Products linked to E. coli and Salmonella contamination
• Chetak LLC Group recalls deep beans due to Salmonella contamination
• World Market recalls Emek Pistachio Cacao Cream over Salmonella contamination
• Natureen recalls Wei-Chuan dried black fungus slices over Salmonella risk

“Food safety is non-negotiable. Recalls are not just about pulling products off shelves, they’re a wake-up call for companies to strengthen their supply chains and protect consumers.” Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86

Ensuring safe eats

This recall serves as a stark reminder that combining rodent activity with cheese, or any food product, is a recipe for disaster. Beyond the cringe factor, incidents like this can seriously damage consumer trust, which is often the most valuable asset a food brand has. For everyday shoppers, it’s a clear signal to always check expiration dates, inspect packaging, and return any potentially unsafe products rather than taking unnecessary risks with foodborne illnesses. For companies, the message is just as important: maintaining rigorous inspections, implementing robust pest-control programs, and enforcing consistent quality monitoring are not optional; they are essential steps to safeguard both public health and the integrity of the supply chain.

Source86 offers bulk ingredients, private label services, and rock-solid food safety standards, providing companies with the tools and expertise needed to maintain supply chain excellence while delivering safe, high-quality products to market. Contact us, your partner in safe, high-quality eats.