Sweetwater Valley Cheese issues recall

An East Tennessee cheese manufacturer is recalling some of its products because of a potential bacterial contamination.

Sweetwater Valley Farm is warning consumers that one lot of its Tennessee Aged Black Pepper cheese may be contaminated with Listeria. The bacteria was detected during a routine state inspection.

Listeria may cause serious, and sometimes fatal, infections in children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems. It may also lead to headache, abdominal pain, diarrhea and fever in adults.

A company representative told 10News they are taking the possible contamination seriously.

The recalled Black Pepper cheese was produced in five, seven and ten ounce blocks between December 27, 2007 and May 12, 2008. Sweetwater Valley representatives say about 100 pounds of cheese are affected.

The recalled cheese has lot number 616-361. It was sold at the Sweetwater creamery and at a winery in Portland, TN. Consumers can return the cheese for a full refund or a replacement.