Multiple brands of grated Pecorino Romano cheese sold at H-E-B and Sam’s Club in San Antonio have tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. This prompted health officials to issue a recall, which was initially announced in November 2025 and expanded this week due to additional positive test results. Consumers are advised to check product labels and lot numbers carefully, returning or discarding any affected packages.
Recall Classified as Class I by FDA
The recall, initiated by the Ambriola Company, has been elevated to a Class I designation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This classification indicates a serious risk, as there is a reasonable probability that consuming the affected products could lead to severe health issues or even death. Retailers and distributors have been instructed to remove the implicated lots from their shelves while investigations continue to identify any remaining inventory.
Shipments of the recalled cheese have reached retailers in approximately 20 states, impacting consumers beyond Texas. Products were sold between November 3 and November 20, 2025, meaning that some packages may still be in households, with sell-by dates extending into spring 2026. As of the recall announcement, Ambriola reported no confirmed illnesses associated with the affected products.
Details on Affected Products
The recall affects several brands, including Locatelli, Boar’s Head, Member’s Mark, Pinna, and Ambriola itself. Specific lot numbers include Sam’s Club Pecorino Romano 1.5-pound bags (1000570107, 1000570766, 1000572513) and Locatelli bulk bags (1000570725, 1000572476). Production of the affected products has been paused while further investigations are underway. Consumers should discard or return these products for a full refund, as advised by the FDA.
The health risks associated with Listeria are particularly concerning for vulnerable populations. Individuals who are pregnant, elderly, or have weakened immune systems may experience severe complications. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, and gastrointestinal distress, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Listeria infections during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or life-threatening conditions in newborns. If symptoms arise after consuming potentially contaminated products, health officials recommend contacting a healthcare provider promptly.
To ensure safety, consumers are urged to check their kitchens for any grated Pecorino Romano cheese. It is important to verify the brand name, package size, and printed lot number. Tasting the cheese to determine its safety is not advisable. If a matching lot is found, the product should be discarded or returned for a refund. For further inquiries, Ambriola’s consumer contact information is available in the recall notice. Detailed information and a complete list of affected SKUs can also be found on the FDA website.
