United States Listeria outbreak tied to Maryland dairy
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U.S. health authorities are investigating a deadly multi-state outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to requesón, a traditional Hispanic soft cheese. As of July 9, 2026, at least 12 people in four states have been sickened, including 10 hospitalizations and one death in Maryland. Traceback and laboratory evidence connect the illnesses to products from Clover Hill Dairy, LLC in Mechanicsville, Maryland. The Maryland Department of Health suspended the company’s license on May 30, 2026, and the firm has expanded recalls to all cheese products. Affected items were distributed in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. between May 11 and June 1, 2026.
More context
Timeline
- May 11, 2026 Products begin regional distribution
- May 30, 2026 Maryland suspends Clover Hill license
- June 1, 2026 Last recalled products reportedly distributed
- June 18, 2026 Clover Hill expands cheese recalls
- June 26, 2026 La Ceiba Foods issues secondary recall
- July 9, 2026 Twelve infections confirmed across four states
- July 9, 2026 One associated death reported in Maryland
- July 9, 2026 FDA posts official recall notice
Why it matters
Your health could be at risk if you've consumed requesón or other cheeses from Clover Hill Dairy. Especially if you live in Maryland, Virginia, or D.C. Check your fridge for any recalled products. If you feel sick, contact your doctor immediately.
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
