Cottage Cheese Sold at Walmart Recalled Due to Improper Pasteurization

A cottage cheese product sold at Walmart stores has been recalled across two dozen states, including Tennessee, due to potential safety concerns. The recall was issued after it was discovered that the product may not be properly pasteurized, posing a possible health risk to consumers.

The affected cottage cheese was distributed widely at various Walmart locations under the Great value brand. They were sold at Walmart stores between February 17 and February 20, 2026. The recall impacts the following lot numbers and expiration dates, so shoppers should check their refrigerators for any matching items. The recalled items were sold in white plastic tubs with white lids and came in 16-ounce, 24-ounce and 3-pound containers.

The affected products are:

Great Value Fat Free Small Curd Cottage Cheese – 0% Milkfat:

• 24 oz. container
• UPC: 078742373393
• Best if used by: APR-01-26, APR-03-26

Great Value Lowfat Small Curd Cottage Cheese – 2% Milkfat:

• 24 oz. container
• UPC: 078742116730
• Best if used by: APR-01-26, APR-02-26, APR-03-26

Great Value Small Curd Cottage Cheese – 4% milkfat minimum:

• 16 oz. container
  • UPC: 078742372358
  • Best if used by: APR-02-26
• 24 oz. container
  • UPC: 078742372365
  • Best if used by: APR-02-26, APR-03-26
• 3 lb. container
  • UPC: 078742147970
  • Best if used by: APR-01-26, APR-02-26

Although no illnesses have been confirmed, health experts warn that consuming contaminated dairy products can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Those with weakened immune systems, older adults, and young children may face a higher risk of complications.

Customers who have purchased the recalled cottage cheese should not consume it. Instead, they are advised to discard the product or return it to their local Walmart store for a refund. Walmart says it is working closely with suppliers and regulatory agencies to ensure that all affected products are removed from shelves.

The impacted pasteurizer has since been returned to normal function, verified and sealed by state authorities. No other products produced in the facility were affected.

This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety monitoring and prompt action when potential contamination is identified. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about recalls and regularly check products at home to reduce the risk of illness.

What Does Pasteurization Do?

Pasteurization is a heat-treatment process used to make food and beverages safer to consume. It works by heating a product to a specific temperature for a set amount of time, then rapidly cooling it.

The main purpose is to kill harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause illness, including pathogens linked to diseases like listeriosis and salmonella infection. However, pasteurization does not sterilize food completely. Instead, it reduces the number of harmful organisms to safe levels while preserving taste, texture, and nutritional value.

Contact Us Today

The foods we eat are generally safe but sometimes manufacturing issues can cause allergies, medical conditions, and more.

If a faulty or defective product has injured you or a loved one, contact a Mt. Juliet product liability lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC. We will help determine liability so you can receive fair compensation. Call (615) 622-6060 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation today.

Source:

local3news.com/local-news/cottage-cheese-sold-at-walmart-recalled-across-24-states-including-tennessee-and-georgia/article_a04eaadc-643e-4cfc-a87e-9759e2dabee2.html