Massive Shredded Cheese Recall Hits US Grocers Over Metal Contamination Risk

A major recall for shredded cheese is underway across the United States. Over one million bags are being pulled from store shelves. The recall is due to possible contamination with metal fragments.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the action. It affects products sold at Walmart, Aldi, Target, and Publix. According to CBS News, the cheese was distributed to 31 states and Puerto Rico.

Details of the Widespread Recall

The recall involves more than 1.5 million individual bags. Products include mozzarella and Italian-style cheese blends. They were manufactured by Great Lakes Cheese Co. of Ohio.

Affected brands include Great Value, Good & Gather, and Happy Farms. Borden, Publix, and Food Club brands are also included. The FDA has classified this as a Class II recall.

This classification means a remote risk of serious harm. Temporary or medically reversible health issues are possible. No injuries have been reported to date.

What Consumers Need to Check Now

Consumers should check their refrigerators immediately. Look for shredded cheese with specific sell-by dates. Dates range from January 2026 through late March 2026.

The recall covers a wide array of package sizes. This includes 8-ounce bags up to 5-pound bulk packs. A full list of UPC codes is on the FDA’s website.

If you have an affected product, do not eat it. You should return it to the store for a full refund. Alternatively, you can discard the cheese safely.

Retailer and Regulatory Response

Major retailers are cooperating fully with the recall. Products are being removed from physical stores and online inventories. According to the Associated Press, the contamination was traced to a supplier.

This triggered what is known as a downstream recall. The proactive measure aims to prevent any consumer illness. It highlights the interconnected nature of modern food supply chains.

The FDA’s investigation remains ongoing. The agency continues to monitor the effectiveness of the recall. They assure the public that the risk is being managed.

This shredded cheese recall is one of the largest in recent memory, directly impacting pantry staples in millions of American homes. The swift regulatory and corporate response aims to ensure public safety remains the top priority.

Dropping this nugget your way

Which specific cheese brands are included in this recall?

The recall includes many store-brand and national labels. Major affected brands are Great Value (Walmart), Good & Gather (Target), and Happy Farms (Aldi). Borden, Publix, Food Club, and several regional brands are also involved.

What health risks do the metal fragments pose?

The FDA classifies this as a Class II health risk. This means the fragments could cause minor mouth injuries or temporary digestive discomfort. The risk of serious or long-term injury is considered very low.

How can I identify if my cheese is part of the recall?

Check the brand name, UPC barcode, and sell-by date on the package. The affected sell-by dates are between January 2026 and March 30, 2026. The FDA website has the complete list of identifying codes.

What should I do with the recalled cheese I already bought?

Do not consume the cheese. You have two options for recourse. Return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund, or simply throw it away.

Why is this recall affecting so many different store brands?

One manufacturer, Great Lakes Cheese Co., produced cheese for all these different labels. This is common in the food industry and is known as co-packing. A single contamination issue can therefore affect numerous brands at once.

Is shredded cheese still safe to buy from stores right now?

Yes, products not listed in the recall notice are safe. Retailers have pulled all affected lots from their shelves. Always check for the latest recall notices from the FDA for the most current information.