Nazareth Classic, Nazareth Light cheese recalled due to Listeria contamination

A New Jersey company is recalling its “Nazareth Classic” and “Nazareth Light” cheeses because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria.

According to a release from Atalanta Corp., of Elizabeth, N.J., the recall includes less than 70 cases of “Nazareth Classic” and “Nazareth Light” cheese products. These cases were distributed to retail locations in the Northeast and each retailer has received notification of the recall, the company said in a release.

The recalled cheese products were sold in bulk, with two loaves per six- or seven-pound case. A retailer would re-sell the product at randomly cut weights. Labels read Nazareth Classic and Nazareth Light “imported by Atalanta Corp”. The affected lots are 5030008, 5030009, 11350044, 11350045, 11350046 and 10840120. The cheese products in the recall have Expiration dates between March 13 and July 29.

Atalanta is not aware of any illnesses linked to the consumption of these recalled cheeses. Listeria bacteria was discovered during testing done at the Belgian manufacturer.

Early symptoms of Listeria poisoning are fever, headaches, stiffness, nausea and abdominal pain. The very young, the elderly and those with weak immune systems are likely to experience more severe symptoms. Pregnant women who contract Listeria poisoning may experience miscarriage or stillbirth.