Washington, D.C. – Several grated Pecorino Romano cheese products distributed by a New Jersey–based company have been recalled in at least 20 states after testing confirmed potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The recall, which was first initiated on November 25, 2025, was upgraded to a Class I recall as of January 6. This is the FDA’s most serious classification, used when there is a reasonable probability that consuming the product could lead to serious health consequences or death.
Recall Tied to Ambriola Company Cheese Products
The recall involves products manufactured by The Ambriola Company, based in West Caldwell, New Jersey. Routine testing detected Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause severe and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
The company said it acted immediately after the positive test result.
“We take food safety very seriously and immediately alerted stores and distributors to remove the affected products from shelves,” said Phil Marfuggi, chief executive officer of The Ambriola Company. “We are working closely with the FDA and continuing to test our products and facilities to fully understand the situation.”
States Impacted by the Cheese Recall
The ongoing recall affects grated Pecorino Romano products sold across the following states:
Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
Specific Products Included in the Recall
The recall applies only to the following grated Pecorino Romano products and lot numbers:
Locatelli
- Grated Pecorino Romano 4 oz and 8 oz plastic cup & lid, 12 units per case
Lot numbers: 1000572472, 1000570734, 1000570735, 1000570736, 1000572482, 1000572483, 1000572485 - Grated Pecorino Romano 5 lb and 10 lb plastic bags
Lot numbers: 1000570725, 1000572476, 1000570724, 1000572475, 1000570726, 1000570727, 1000572477 - Grated Pecorino Romano 48/8 oz shipper, plastic cup & lid
Lot numbers: 1000570750, 1000572499, 1000572514
Pinna
- Grated Pecorino Romano 10 lb plastic bags
Lot number: 1000572486
Boar’s Head
- Grated Pecorino Romano 6 oz plastic cup & lid
Lot number: 1000572486 - Pecorino Romano grated 5 lb plastic bag
Lot numbers: 1000570093, 1000570738
Sam’s
- Pecorino Romano grated 1.5 lb plastic bags
Lot numbers: 1000570107, 1000570766, 1000572513
Ambriola
- Piccante grated Pecorino Romano 5 lb and 10 lb plastic bags
Lot numbers: 1000572981, 1000570737, 1000570092, 1000572487
No other Ambriola, Locatelli, Member’s Mark, Pinna, or Boar’s Head products are included in this recall.
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers who purchased any of the recalled products are advised not to consume them. The items should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.
For additional information, Ambriola can be contacted at 1-800-962-8224, Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Eastern Time.
How Listeria Can Make People Sick
Listeria infection occurs when contaminated food is consumed. Symptoms may begin within a few hours or days, but in some cases can take weeks or even up to three months to appear.
Mild symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
More serious cases can lead to:
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Loss of balance
- Seizures
Who Is Most at Risk
People most vulnerable to Listeria infections include:
- Young children
- Adults over 65
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
Health officials urge anyone in these groups who may have consumed the recalled products and is experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.
Ongoing FDA Oversight
The FDA continues to monitor the situation and work with The Ambriola Company as testing and inspections move forward. Updates to the recall will be issued if additional products or lot numbers are affected.
