Bacteria Found In Glendale Product Recalled Last Month
The Glendale cheese maker who recalled its product earlier this month due to improper pasteurization has been told that the product may also be contaminated with Staphylococcus bacteria, the state Department of Agriculture announced.
The agency is asking residents not to purchase or eat “Quesito Colombiano, Colombian style Cheese” sold under the brand name “Tita.”
“Tita” is the brand name of Productos Tita Corp., located at 70-06 88th St.
The recalled products were sold in the New York metropolitan area in plastic pouches or clear plastic tubs, with labels bearing the code 36-8440 and a stamped date of Aug. 10, 2012.
Residents who have purchased the product are advised to bring it back to its place of purchase or throw it in the trash.
A State Department of Agriculture and Markets milk inspector found that the product was improperly pasteurized during an inspection of the plant on July 17. A sample of the cheese, taken by another inspec- tor on July 25, found high levels of Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that can cause food poisoning, vomiting and nausea.
A press release issued by the state noted that, “[t]o date, no illnesses are known by the Department (of Agriculture) to be associated with this product.”
On July 28, Productos Tita Corp. was notified of the positive test result and decided to voluntarily recall the cheese.
Consumers with questions can contact Productos Tita Corp. directly at 1-718-381-4393.
