New York State Agriculture Commissioner Darrel Aubertine today alerted consumers that Productos Tita Corp, (Trade Name of Tita Products), located in Glendale, New York, is voluntarily recalling certain fresh cheese products due to the improper pasteurization of the milk used to make the cheese. Proper pasteurization heats milk in order to effectively eliminate all pathogenic bacteria, such as Listeria and Salmonella.
The recalled fresh cheese products are all sold in plastic pouches, or rectangular clear plastic tubs and are marketed under the brand name “Tita”. The package labels bear the plant code 36-8440. The products also possess a stamped ink date code beneath the label bar code. The recall applies to all date codes of these products found in the marketplace. The recalled products were sold in the metropolitan New York area. The cheese products involved in this recall are labeled: Quesito Colombiano Colombian Cheese
The problem was detected by a New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets’ milk inspector during an inspection on July 17, 2012 when they found a failure to follow proper pasteurization procedures by the Productos Tita Corp. cheese plant. While the recalled products have not been found to be contaminated with any harmful pathogens, the company is voluntarily recalling all production date codes of this product, as a precautionary measure.
No illnesses have been reported to date to this Department in connection with this problem. Consumers are warned not to use or consume the recalled product, even if it does not appear or smell spoiled.
Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products should return them to the place of purchase or discard them. Consumers with questions may contact Productos Tita Corp directly at 718-381-4393.
Source: FDA