Fresh Cheese Recalled for Improper Pasteurization

A New York company is voluntarily recalling a Columbian-style cheese product because it was made with milk that was not properly pasteurized.  Glendale, NY-based Productos Tita Corp issued the recall after a milk inspector from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets visited its cheese plant on June 17 and found that proper pasteurization procedures were not being followed.  Pasteurization is a heating process designed to kill harmful pathogens, such as Salmonella and Listeria, which are shed in animal feces and can contaminate milk during the milking process.  The recalled fresh cheese product was sold in the metropolitan New York area in both plastic pouches and rectangular clear plastic tubs under the brand name “Tita.” All package labels bear the plant code 36-8440. A stamped ink date code can be found beneath the label bar code. The recall applies to all date codes of these products found in the marketplace.  The cheese products subject to this recall are labeled “Quesito Colombiano Colombian Cheese.”  To date, no illnesses have been linked to consumption of this cheese.  Consumers who purchased the recalled product are urged not to eat it, and to return it to the place of purchase or discard it. Anyone with questions can contact the company at 718-381-4393.