Pecorino Romano Recall Hits North Carolina Over Listeria Risk

Health officials have issued a nationwide recall of certain Pecorino Romano cheese products after testing revealed a potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious illness. North Carolina is among at least 20 states affected by the recall, which includes products sold under brand names such as Ambriola, Locatelli, Boar’s Head, Member’s Mark, and Pinna.

Consumers are urged not to eat any of the recalled products. Those who purchased them should either safely discard the cheese or return it to the retailer for a full refund. Vulnerable populations—including pregnant people, young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems—are at the highest risk for severe illness.

Products, Lot Numbers, and Expiration Dates

The recall affects various grated Pecorino Romano products, including:

• Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano4‑oz and 8‑oz plastic cups — Expiration dates: 05/03/26, 05/10/26, 05/17/26 (4‑oz); 04/06/26 through 05/17/26 (8‑oz)

• Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano5‑lb and 10‑lb bags — Multiple expiration dates through spring 2026

• Boar’s Head Grated Pecorino Romano6‑oz plastic cups — Expiration dates: 03/04/26, 03/12/265‑lb bags — Expiration dates: 03/03/26, 03/12/26

• Member’s Mark Grated Pecorino Romano1.5‑lb bags — Expiration dates: 03/25/26, 03/30/26, 04/05/26

• Ambriola Piccante Grated Pecorino Romano5‑lb and 10‑lb bags — Expiration dates through March and April 2026

• Pinna Grated Pecorino Romano10‑lb bags — Expiration date: 03/11/26

• Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano 48/8‑oz shipper packs — Multiple expiration dates

States Affected

The recalled products were distributed to stores and food service distributors in at least 20 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and Washington.

Health Risks and Safety Measures

Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, an infection with symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, muscle aches, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to bloodstream infections or meningitis. Pregnant individuals are especially at risk, as infection can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious illness in newborns.

The Ambriola Company has suspended production and distribution of the affected products while working with the FDA to review safety procedures and prevent further contamination.

Consumers who may have purchased any of the recalled products in North Carolina or other states should check the lot numbers and expiration dates on their cheese. Anyone who consumed the affected cheese and develops symptoms of listeriosis should contact a healthcare provider immediately.