by Doug Powell
That ricotta cheese that has killed three people originated in Italy and was sold at a whole bunch of fancy Whole Foods in the U.S.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control is reporting that as of September 11, 2012, a total of 14 persons infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been 
reported from 11 states and the District of Columbia.
All 14 ill persons have been hospitalized. Three deaths have been reported. Listeriosis contributed to at least one of these deaths.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration identified the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria in a sample of uncut imported Frescolina brand ricotta salata cheese distributed by Forever Cheese, Inc.
The first person fell ill on March 28, the most recent on Aug.30, according to CDC.
All 14 ill individuals were hospitalized. Four of those sickened were pregnant women, two were newborns. The other 10 people were between 56 and 87 years old.
Our Italian food safety friend says the producer got a big thumbs up from European auditors.
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© 2012 US Food Safety Corporation. No copyright claim is made for portions of this blog and linked items that are works of the United States Government, state governments or third parties
ExpertRECALL
September 17, 2012
This serious outbreak of Listeriastresses the importance of food safety and regulations. In an effort to heighten awareness of food safety education, the National Restaurant Association recognizes September as National Food Safety Month by providing free training activities and posters for the foodservice industry.This year’s theme is “Be Safe, Don’t Cross-Contaminate.” To learn more about cross-contamination and programs offered throughout the month, read this post on the ExpertINSIGHTSBlog: http://www.expertrecall.com/national-food-safety-month-safe-dont-cross-contaminate-2/.