Last May 20, Atalanta Corporation announced a product recall for specific lots of Nazareth Light Cheeses and Nazareth Classic Cheeses. These affected products were said to be possibly contaminated by Listeria monocytogenes.

The potentially contaminated cheeses were discovered after the manufacturer’s routine sample testing showed that Listeria monocytogenes was present in the batch. The recalled products were packed per case: Two 6 to 7-lb. loaves for every case. Usually, the products are sold in random cuts and random weights. The labels read Nazareth Light and Nazareth Classic and are printed with “imported by Atalanta Corporation.” Affected batches have lot numbers: 5030009, 11350044, 11350046, 5030008, 11350044 and 10840120. Expiration dates indicated are from 3/13 to 7/29/2011.

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can cause miscarriages and stillbirths in pregnant women, especially those with weakened health conditions. In worst cases, this bacteria can cause death in frail people, young children and the elderly. Common symptoms of infection include high fever, stiffness, abdominal pain, severe headache, nausea and diarrhea. No health incidences have been reported for this product recall, however.

Not more than 70 cases of the recalled cheese products have been distributed to retail establishments, primarily in the North East area. Notices have already been sent out to the retailers. The rest of the undistributed affected cheese products have been quarantined and will soon be destroyed under the supervision of the FDA.

People who have the recalled cheeses in their possession are advised to return it to the store in order to be refunded their money. They may also call 908-351-8000 (9 AM to 5 PM EST) for any recall related concerns or questions they may have.