Felix, a premature baby, tragically passed away after weeks of struggling with severe health complications. His family, including his mothers, has been represented in the aftermath of this devastating loss.
In 2012, a nationwide outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections affected 22 people across 13 states and the District of Columbia. Among the infected, 20 individuals were hospitalized, and four fatalities were reported. Public health officials confirmed that two of these deaths were linked to listeriosis, a severe infection caused by Listeria bacteria. Additionally, one fetal loss was reported.
An extensive investigation involving local, state, and federal health and regulatory agencies revealed that the outbreak was likely caused by Frescolina Marte brand ricotta salata cheese. This cheese, imported from Italy by Forever Cheese, Inc., was identified as the source of the infection.
On September 10, 2012, Forever Cheese, Inc. voluntarily recalled a specific batch of the affected cheese. The recall was expanded just a few days later. On September 14, the company pulled all lots of the cheese from the market after further investigation confirmed contamination.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also took action. On September 13, the FDA placed the Italian cheese exporter, Fattorie Chiarappa S.R.L. of Conversano, Italy, under Import Alert. This means that any future shipments of their cheese to the United States will be blocked unless the company proves that the products are free from contamination.
This incident highlights the serious risks associated with foodborne pathogens and underscores the need for strict safety measures in the food importation process.
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