Maryland issues recall of Clover Hill Dairy soft cheese products

BALTIMORE - Health officials are warning consumers not to eat certain soft cheese products made by a Southern Maryland dairy over concerns about possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a potentially dangerous foodborne bacterium.

The Maryland Department of Health announced that Clover Hill Dairy, based in Mechanicsville, has voluntarily recalled its requesón and soft ricotta cheese products. State officials also suspended the company's operating license while conducting a follow-up evaluation of the facility.

The recalled products were sold directly through the dairy's retail market, at farmers markets and through third-party distributors in Maryland, Virginia and New York. Some products might contain added flavors, including jalapeño, and might have been sold under different brand names. Health officials said consumers should check packaging for Clover Hill Dairy's manufacturer permit number, "24-128."

The department urged consumers, restaurants and retailers not to eat, serve or sell any products containing the recalled cheeses and to dispose of them immediately.

Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can range from fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea to more severe complications, including headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and seizures.

Health officials noted that listeriosis symptoms can appear within days of consuming contaminated food, but in some cases may take up to two months to develop. Anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with listeriosis should seek medical attention.

Unlike many foodborne pathogens, Listeria can survive and continue growing under refrigeration. The bacteria can also spread to other foods and surfaces, and pets that consume contaminated products might carry the bacteria into homes.

The health department said consumers at higher risk of illness should avoid soft cheeses made from unpasteurized milk. Officials added that even products made from pasteurized milk can become contaminated after processing.

The recall remains under investigation, and state health officials said the advisory reflects the most current information available.

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This story was originally published June 4, 2026 at 2:16 PM.