
Ambriola Company’s cheese recall reaches the highest danger level, igniting concerns over food safety and consumer protection.
Story Highlights
- Ambriola recalls 11,530 cheese products due to Listeria contamination.
- FDA upgrades recall to Class I, indicating severe health risks.
- No illnesses reported, but consumers are advised to discard affected products.
- Recall affects multiple brands, including Locatelli and Boar’s Head.
Ambriola’s Cheese Recall: A Timeline of Events
On November 25, 2025, The Ambriola Company initiated a recall of approximately 11,530 cheese products after routine testing confirmed Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
These cheeses, including brands like Locatelli and Boar’s Head, were distributed nationwide from November 3 to November 20, 2025. Despite no reported illnesses, the recall was aimed at preventing potential health risks and urged consumers to discard or return the affected items.
By January 6, 2026, the FDA reclassified the recall to Class I, the highest danger level, due to the “reasonable probability” of serious health consequences.
This reclassification applied to specific lots of Locatelli and Pinna grated Pecorino Romano products, emphasizing the heightened risk associated with these cheeses. This upgrade highlights the potential severity of Listeria outbreaks and reinforces the importance of rigorous food safety measures.
Recall of cheese products upgraded to highest danger level over Listeria-causing bacteria: FDA https://t.co/H3e5paYbRb
— FOX Business (@FoxBusiness) January 12, 2026
Implications for Consumers and Businesses
The recall has significant implications for both consumers and businesses. In the short term, consumers are advised to check their products and ensure any affected items are discarded or returned.
Retailers, especially those in the 20 states where these cheeses were distributed, face the challenge of removing products from shelves and managing refunds. Long-term, the recall could lead to increased scrutiny on cheese processing facilities and stricter FDA oversight to prevent similar incidents.
The FDA’s involvement underscores the critical role of regulatory bodies in safeguarding public health. While no illnesses have been reported, the recall’s Class I status serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by foodborne pathogens such as Listeria.
For businesses, this incident may prompt a reevaluation of safety protocols and an investment in more comprehensive testing measures to prevent future outbreaks.
Food Safety: A Continuing Priority
Ambriola’s CEO, Phil Marfuggi, has emphasized the company’s commitment to food safety, stating that it is working closely with the FDA and has suspended production and distribution to ensure consumer safety.
The company’s proactive measures in recalling the products before any illnesses were reported demonstrate a responsible approach to food safety, though the recall’s expansion “out of an abundance of caution” highlights the complexities of managing such risks.
As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial for consumers to stay informed about food safety recalls and for companies to maintain transparency in their safety measures. The recall’s impact on consumer trust and market dynamics will likely influence industry practices and regulatory policies in the months and years to come.
In conclusion, the Ambriola cheese recall serves as a critical case study in food safety, underscoring the importance of vigilant testing and regulatory oversight in protecting public health. As the industry addresses these challenges, the collaboration between companies and regulatory bodies will be pivotal in ensuring the safety and integrity of the food supply.
Sources:
KSAT News on Cheese Product Recall
Local12 News on Listeria Recall
FDA Official Recall Announcement
Delish on Pecorino Romano Recall














