SALT LAKE CITY – Saputo Cheese USA Inc. has issued a voluntary recall of three varieties of Walmart Great Value brand cottage cheese due to potential health risks linked to inadequate pasteurization, according to an announcement from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday.
The recalled products include:
– Great Value fat-free small curd cottage cheese – 0% milkfat, available in 24-ounce containers
– Great Value low-fat small curd cottage cheese – 2% milkfat, available in 24-ounce containers
– Great Value small curd cottage cheese – 4% milkfat, available in minimum 16-ounce, 24-ounce, and 3-pound containers
This decision comes after Saputo identified pasteurizer issues during routine troubleshooting. Fortunately, the malfunctioning pasteurizer has since been repaired, and the company confirmed that no other products manufactured at the facility were compromised.
The affected cottage cheese products were distributed across 24 states, including Utah, Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Tennessee, Washington, and Wyoming.
The FDA warns that consuming dairy products that are not fully pasteurized can pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the young, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. The products were sold in stores between February 17 and 20, 2026.
At this time, no illnesses or hospitalizations have been reported in connection with the recalled items. Customers who have purchased the affected cottage cheese are encouraged to return them to Walmart for a full refund. This proactive measure highlights safety priorities within the dairy industry and reassures consumers regarding the integrity of food products in the market.