YAKIMA (AP) — The Washington state Department of Health says an outbreak of listeria that has killed one person originated from a Yakima cheese maker.
The Yakima Herald-Republic reported that state health and agriculture officials are working with federal officials to contain the outbreak. The products in question come from Yakima-based Queseria Bendita. The company has stopped producing cheese and is subject to a voluntary recall.
Health officials said that as of Friday three listeria cases had been reported — one each in King, Pierce and Yakima counties. One death was reported.
Health officials said people who bought three Queseria Bendita brand cheeses — Queso Fresco, Panela, and Requeson — should throw the product away and not eat it.
In a statement, the company said the cheese in question was distributed to Hispanic grocery stores in Washington and Oregon and the firm also sold products from its on-site store in Yakima.
