Posted: 01.04.2012

Bekkum Family Farms LLC of Westby, WI, is recalling shredded cheese because it may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The cheese is labeled "Grumpy Goat Shreds" under the Nordic Creamery brand name, in eight-ounce bags with a code date of 10-MAR-12.  It was sold in stores in Wisconsin, Minnesota and California beginning Nov. 11. The product should be thrown away or returned to place of purchase for a full refund.

"Public safety is our main concern in a situation like this," says Al Bekkum, company spokesman.  "Even though our product has not tested positive for the bacteria, we are conducting this recall out of an abundance of caution."

Bekkum Family Farms was informed by Alpine Slicing & Cheese Conversion, Monroe, WI, that its cheese was shredded on the same equipment where other cheese had tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. Alpine processes and packages cheese for other companies.

Consumption of food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, an uncommon but potentially fatal disease. Listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, and nausea. Listeriosis can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths. The very young, the pregnant, the elderly, and persons with compromised immune systems are the most susceptible to infection. People experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

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