Schreiber Foods Inc. is recalling multiple cream cheese spreads due to potential Salmonella contamination. The recall encompasses various brands and flavors sold across 19 states and Puerto Rico. The FDA has classified the recall as a Class II - a situation where the use of or exposure to the recalled product may cause temporary or medically reversible health issues. 

Why Is So Much Cream Cheese Under Recall?

This cream cheese recall expands earlier recalls involving Aldi and Hy-Vee grocery stores due to potential Salmonella contamination. The Aldi recall encompassed their Happy Farms brand Whipped Cream Cheese Spread, Chive & Onion Cream Cheese Spread, Cream Cheese Spread, and Strawberry Cream Cheese Spread. Hy-Vee recalled their own Cream Cheese Spread and Whipped Cream Cheese Spread, along with a bulk-packaged Cookies & Cream Mix that may have contained contaminated cream cheese.

What Is Salmonella?

Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Symptoms typically appear 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. In severe cases, Salmonella infection can lead to hospitalization and even death. Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk for serious complications.

What To Do If You Suspect You Have Salmonella Poisoning

If you suspect you have Salmonella poisoning, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. Dehydration is a major concern, so doctors will often recommend fluids and electrolytes to replenish what's lost. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to fight the infection. 

What Cream Cheese Products Are Being Recalled?

The affected products were distributed under the following brand names: Dunkin', Happy Farms, Hy Vee, Piggly Wiggly, Schnucks, Schreiber Foods, Dutch Farms, Fareway, Kroger, Our Family, and Essential Everyday. They were distributed in California, Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Mississippi, Minnesota, Montana, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. There are 8 types of spreads that are under recall:

- Cream Cheese Spread (835,721 units)

- Whipped Cream Cheese Spread (835,721 units)

- Garden Vegetable Cream Cheese Spread (835, 721 units)

- Strawberry Cream Cheese Spread (836, 721 units)

- Chive and Onion Cream Cheese Spread (835,721 units) 

- Blueberry Cream Cheese Spread (835,721 units)

- Happy Farms Variety Tray (835,721 units)

- Ranch Garlic Cream Cheese Spread(835, 721 units)

How Can I Tell If My Cream Cheese Is Under Recall?

The FDA has a full list of affected products. The report can be difficult to read, so I've created info graphics for you below. If you have any of these products in your fridge, do not eat them. Throw them away immediately or return them to the store where you purchased them. Salmonella infection can cause serious illness, especially for young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.