Health officials: Listeria outbreak tied to cheese

July 5, 2013 at 1:48PM

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Federal and state health officials are investigating a listeria outbreak that may be linked to cheese.

Minnesota officials say one older adult in the state died and another older adult was hospitalized after illnesses linked to Les Freres cheese, made by Wisconsin producer Crave Brothers Farmstead Classic Cheeses. Both became ill in June.

Officials say at least three other states have related cases.

Minnesota agriculture officials say testing of cheese samples indicate the presence of listeria. Confirmation is pending.

Health officials say consumers who have purchased Les Frères cheese, Petit Frère cheese, and Petit Frère with Truffles should not eat it until more information is available. Officials advised distributors and stores to pull the cheeses from shelves.

A message left late Wednesday with Crave Brothers was not immediately returned.

about the writer

about the writer