Queso Food Recalls: Not So Delicioso

Listeria Contamination Suspected We’ve written quite a bit about Listeria outbreaks lately, and we’re sorry to report yet another round of food recalls. This time, it’s Mexican queso products coming from El Ranchero Del Sur, LLC. from South River, New Jersey. The recalled cheeses are El Ranchero Queso Fresco 14 oz. (Fresh Cheese); Los Corrales Queso Fresco en Hoja De Platano 14 oz. (Fresh Cheese In Banana Leaf); and El Ranchero Queso Oaxaca 14 oz. and 10 lb. (String Cheese). How to Kill Listeria Some of our previous articles contain in depth information and Listeria facts, but proper cooking is the only one way to ensure Listeria-free food. Most sources say you must heat contaminated food to 158° for at least two minutes. Some sources suggest that’s not even hot enough. For over a decade now, the CDC has recommended that people over 50 should prepare lunch meat, cold cuts, hot dogs and other deli meats by heating them to 165°, or “steaming hot.” For those with weakened immune systems, the elderly, pregnant women and young children, the added precaution could be a lifesaver. If you or your family has been affected by food poisoning, contact us for a free appraisal.