Wicklow Cheese Recall Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Wicklow Cheese Recall Lawsuit Overview

This lawsuit concerns Wicklow cheese products recalled due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The primary allegations focus on the manufacturer’s failure to ensure product safety before distribution. The recall affects specific batches of Wicklow Gold Cheddar products sold in MA, ME, NH, OH, and CO.

This action follows FDA warnings about the serious health risks associated with Listeria contamination in these cheese products.

Latest Wicklow Cheese Recall Lawsuit Updates

• January 3, 2025 – Abbey Specialty Foods initiated a recall of Wicklow Gold Cheddar products after being notified by Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese LTD of potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination in specific batches with expiration dates of 6/2/2025 [1].

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA Recall Letter, this action affects specific batches of Wicklow Gold Cheddar Nettle & Chive and Wicklow Gold Cheddar Tomato & Herb products. The recall was initiated after notification from Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese LTD about potential Listeria contamination in these products.

“You can identify these by reviewing batch number, UPC and by sell by date on the back label of the product,” FDA said. “These products had limited distribution in the United States and were sold in these states MA, ME, NH, OH, CO.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates approximately 1,600 cases of listeriosis occur annually in the United States [2]. Globally, the incidence rate is 0.1–1.1 cases per 100,000 people, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) [3].

Mortality Rate – Listeriosis is highly fatal, with a mortality rate of 20-30%, making it one of the most severe foodborne illnesses.

Hospitalization Rates – Over 94% of individuals diagnosed with listeriosis require hospitalization due to severe symptoms and complications.

Sources of Infection

Food Contamination

Listeria monocytogenes is primarily transmitted through contaminated food. Common sources include:

• Ready-to-eat deli meats and hot dogs.
• Soft cheeses made with unpasteurized milk.
• Refrigerated smoked seafood.
• Raw vegetables and fruit (e.g., cantaloupes, apples).

Outbreaks

• The CDC tracked over 100 listeria outbreaks between 1998 and 2023 in the U.S.
• A 2011 outbreak linked to contaminated cantaloupes caused 147 cases, 33 deaths, and one miscarriage, marking it as one of the deadliest foodborne outbreaks in U.S. history.

At-Risk Populations

Pregnant Women

• Pregnant women are about 10 times more likely to contract listeriosis than the general population.
• Listeriosis during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns.
• It is estimated that 1 in 6 cases of listeriosis occurs in pregnant women.

Immunocompromised Individuals

• People with weakened immune systems (e.g., cancer patients, transplant recipients, and those with HIV/AIDS) are at significantly higher risk.
• Listeriosis is particularly severe in individuals over 65 years old, with most fatalities occurring in this age group.

Listeria Injuries & Side Effects

Listeria infection can cause serious and potentially life-threatening complications, particularly in vulnerable populations.

• General Symptoms: Fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions
• Pregnancy Complications: Miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn
• Invasive Listeriosis: Bacterial meningitis, septicemia, endocarditis, and other serious infections
• Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain

Do You Qualify for a Wicklow Cheese Recall Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Wicklow Cheese Recall lawsuit if:

• You purchased and consumed Wicklow Gold Cheddar Nettle & Chive or Wicklow Gold Cheddar Tomato & Herb with the affected batch numbers
• You experienced symptoms of Listeria food poisoning after consuming the recalled cheese
• You required medical treatment or hospitalization for your symptoms
• You can provide documentation of your purchase and/or medical records linking your illness to the contaminated product

Evidence Required for a Wicklow Cheese Recall Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should gather:

• Proof of purchase (receipts, credit card statements)
• Product packaging or photos of the affected product showing batch numbers and expiration dates
• Medical records documenting your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
• Documentation of missed work and lost wages

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of Listeria food poisoning from recalled Wicklow cheese may be eligible to recover:

• Medical expenses, including hospitalization, medication, and follow-up care
• Lost wages from time off work during illness and recovery
• Pain and suffering associated with the illness
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Wicklow Cheese Recall Information

The Wicklow Cheese recall was initiated on January 3, 2025, affecting specific batches of Wicklow Gold Cheddar Nettle & Chive and Wicklow Gold Cheddar Tomato & Herb with sell-by dates of 6/2/2025. The FDA advises consumers who purchased these products not to consume them and to either discard them or return them to the point of purchase for a refund.

If you purchased any Wicklow cheese that is affected by this recall, you should not eat it and either discard it or return it to the point of purchase for a refund.

Anyone concerned about a potential listeria food poisoning illness should contact their physician or dial 9-1-1 immediately.

This recall began on January 3, 2025.

Statute of Limitations for Wicklow Cheese Recall Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for food poisoning cases varies by state, typically ranging from 1-3 years from the date of injury or discovery of illness. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.

Related Articles

• Karoun Dairies Cheese Lawsuit
• Royal Blue Stilton Cheese Recall Lawsuit
• Roos Foods Cheese Lawsuit

FAQs

1. What should I do if I purchased recalled Wicklow cheese?

If you purchased recalled Wicklow cheese, do not consume it. Either discard it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. If you’ve already consumed the cheese, monitor for symptoms of Listeria infection.

2. What are the symptoms of Listeria infection?

Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In pregnant women, symptoms may be mild but can lead to serious complications for the fetus.

3. How long after eating contaminated cheese might symptoms appear?

Symptoms typically appear within 1-4 weeks after consuming contaminated food, but can develop as early as the same day or as late as 70 days after exposure.

4. Who is most at risk for serious complications from Listeria?

Pregnant women, newborns, adults aged 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk for severe illness.

5. How is Listeria infection diagnosed?

Listeria infection is typically diagnosed through a blood test or analysis of spinal fluid. In some cases, stool samples may also be tested.

6. What treatment is available for Listeria infection?

Listeria infection is treated with antibiotics. Prompt treatment is essential, particularly for high-risk individuals.

7. How much compensation might I receive from a Wicklow cheese lawsuit?

Compensation varies based on factors including severity of illness, medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term health effects. Your attorney can provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific circumstances.

8. Will I have to go to court if I file a lawsuit?

Many food poisoning cases settle before trial, but each case is unique. Your attorney will advise whether settlement or trial is in your best interest.

9. Is there a cost to speak with an attorney about my case?

Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers free, confidential consultations for potential Wicklow cheese recall cases.

10. How long does the legal process typically take?

The duration varies based on case complexity, ranging from several months to years. Your attorney can provide a more specific timeline based on your circumstances.

See all related food poisoning lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Get a Free Wicklow Cheese Recall Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Listeria food poisoning from recalled Wicklow cheese. Most states have statutes of limitation of only 1-3 years from the date of injury, after which you may lose your right to compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees to begin your claim
• Payment only if we win your case

References

1. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/abbey-specialty-foods-recalls-wicklow-gold-cheddar-nettle-chive-52-oz-and-wicklow-gold-cheddar
2. https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/about/index.html
3. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/listeriosis