Walmart has issued a recall for several of its Great Value cottage cheese products after concerns arose that some items may not have undergone proper pasteurization. The recall, announced by Saputo Cheese USA in collaboration with the California Department of Food and Agriculture, affects products sold in numerous U.S. states between February 17 and February 20, 2026.
The recall covers select products sold in the following states: Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. No illnesses or hospitalizations have been reported so far.
During routine quality testing, Saputo discovered that some liquid dairy ingredients used in the affected cottage cheese products may not have met state pasteurization requirements. Pasteurization is a heat treatment process that kills harmful bacteria in dairy products. Without full pasteurization, products can pose a health risk, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
The recalled products are sold under Walmart’s Great Value brand in white plastic tubs with white lids. Consumers can identify the affected items by checking the “Best If Used By” date printed on the side of the lid. The products included in the recall are:
Great Value Fat-Free Small Curd Cottage Cheese
Great Value Lowfat Small Curd Cottage Cheese – 2% Milkfat
Great Value Small Curd Cottage Cheese – 4% Milkfat Minimum
These products were manufactured between February 17 and February 20, 2026. Saputo confirmed that the pasteurizer has been repaired and inspected, and no other products from the facility are affected by this recall.
Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled cottage cheese products are advised not to eat them. Instead, the products should be discarded or returned to Walmart for a full refund. The company urges customers to contact Saputo Cheese USA for more information at 888-587-2423, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time.
Pasteurization is a critical step in dairy processing because it eliminates harmful bacteria such as Listeria, Salmonella, and E. coli. Even small lapses in pasteurization can lead to bacterial contamination. Vulnerable populations are at higher risk for serious illness if they consume under-pasteurized dairy products. Symptoms of foodborne illness can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and fatigue.
Ensuring that dairy products are fully pasteurized protects public health and prevents outbreaks of foodborne illness. Companies follow strict safety protocols, including frequent testing, to ensure that all products meet state and federal standards.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) monitors product recalls and posts alerts on its official website. Companies are required to notify consumers immediately when a product presents a potential health risk. In addition, many retailers display recall notices in stores and online, and social media is often used to spread awareness quickly.
Consumers can check for recalls by using product UPC codes, manufacturing dates, or batch numbers. Keeping informed about food recalls helps prevent accidental consumption of contaminated products and ensures timely disposal or return of affected items.
Food safety regulations, including pasteurization requirements, are designed to protect public health. Manufacturers are required to follow strict guidelines for processing and testing dairy products. Regulatory agencies perform inspections and enforce compliance to ensure that only safe products reach consumers.
Recalls like the Walmart Great Value cottage cheese case highlight the importance of monitoring food safety. While no illnesses have been reported in this instance, proactive measures are critical to preventing health risks.
Consumers also play an essential role in food safety. By staying aware of recalls and checking expiration dates, individuals can prevent exposure to potentially harmful products. Reporting any adverse reactions to local health authorities or the FDA helps improve the effectiveness of food safety monitoring systems.
The recall of Walmart’s Great Value cottage cheese demonstrates the importance of pasteurization and strict food safety protocols. Consumers should check their refrigerators and pantries, avoid consuming affected products, and follow the proper steps to return or dispose of them. Remaining informed about recalls ensures both individual safety and public health protection.
For more details or questions, consumers can contact Saputo Cheese USA at 888-587-2423 during business hours. Staying proactive and vigilant can prevent illness and help maintain confidence in the food supply chain.
Source:
U.S. Food and Drug Administration, company recall announcement, Feb. 25, 2026.
Disclaimer:
The content provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual health circumstances vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding medical concerns or before consuming recalled products.
Most Accurate Healthcare AI designed for everything from admin workflows to clinical decision support.