Sunny Pine Farm of Twisp, Washington is voluntarily recalling Organic Chevre, Organic Parsley Chive Chevre and Organic Honey Lavender Chevre due to possible improper pasteurization. Pasteurization heats milk to effectively eliminate all illness-causing bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella. Sunny Pine Farm does not know of any illness or complaints associated with the recalled Chevre cheese.
The recalled Chevre cheeses were sold in plastic 6 oz tubs in the Twisp-Winthrop area in Washington State. Recalled Chevre cheese sold through community supported agriculture (CSA) and retail outlets have an expiration date of 10/16/2013 on a sticker located on the bottom of the container.
Chevre cheese products sold at Methow Valley Farmers Market (aka Twisp Farmers Market) between 7/27/13 and 10/12/13 are also recalled. These products were not labeled with an expiration date.
Washington State Department of Agriculture discovered inadequate pasteurization records during a routine inspection. A review of the pasteurization recorder charts did not prove adequate time for pasteurization. The recorder chart may have not been operating correctly. While it’s possible the products were adequately pasteurized, Sunny Pine Farm has made the decision to recall any products which could affect consumer safety. While producing organic goat cheese since 2007 Sunny Pine Farm has not received any complaints of illness from customers nor has there been any products recalls before this one.
Consumers who have purchased these products should not consume them and are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or replacement. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 509-997-4812 between 8AM and 6PM PST.
Source: FDA
