Whole Foods Market is recalling two specialty cheese products sold at 18 stores across seven states because they contain an undeclared allergen not listed on the label, the company announced Sept. 11.
People with egg allergies or severe sensitivity may experience a serious or life-threatening reaction. The substance is an enzyme derived from egg whites. No illnesses have been reported as of the announcement.
The two products are Fromagerie Coop de Mean Cabricharme Raw Milk, aged 60 days, PLU 57953, sold in California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island, and Belgian Cabricharme, PLU 54670, sold in California and Arizona. Both products have best-by dates up to and including Oct. 7, 2026.
The products were sold in the specialty cheese department. All affected products have been removed from shelves. The announcement was shared by the Food and Drug Administration.
What to do if you purchased these products
Customers who bought either product should not consume them and should discard or return them. Anyone with a valid receipt may return to a Whole Foods Market store for a full refund. The recall number for both products is associated with the Sept. 11 announcement. Customers with questions can contact Whole Foods at 1-844-936-8255.
Anyone who consumed either product and believes they may be having an allergic reaction should contact a healthcare provider immediately. Symptoms of a severe reaction can include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis. People with known allergies to eggs should carry their epinephrine auto-injector and seek emergency care if symptoms are severe.
Egg lysozyme in cheese
The enzyme is derived from egg whites and added to some aged cheeses as a natural preservative. It is widely used and considered safe for most people, but because it derives from egg whites, it is a potential allergen that must be declared on labels under U.S. food labeling regulations.
The failure to declare the allergen on the label triggered this recall. Undeclared allergens are among the most common reasons for food recalls in the United States.
The stores affected
The 18 Whole Foods Market stores involved are located across Arizona, California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island. Customers uncertain whether they purchased either affected product can check the PLU numbers on their receipt or contact the company.
