Nearly one ton of butter produced by Cabot Creamery is being voluntarily recalled due to potential fecal contamination, according to a notice issued by the Food and Drug Administration.
The recall, announced on March 26 by parent company Agri-Mark, Inc., affects Cabot’s Extra Creamy Premium Butter and spans seven states in the Northeast and South.
The product in question is an 8-ounce package of Sea Salted Extra Creamy Premium Butter, sold as two 4-ounce sticks.
It can be identified by a best-by date of September 9, 2025, with a UPC code of 0 78354 62038 0 and lot code 090925-055.
In total, 189 cases — equivalent to approximately 1,701 pounds — are being removed from store shelves across Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Maine, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Arkansas.
The concern prompting the recall is the presence of elevated levels of coliform bacteria, which can be an indicator of unsanitary conditions or possible fecal contamination.
While not all coliform bacteria are harmful, their presence in food products raises concerns about the potential for more dangerous pathogens, such as certain strains of E. coli, to also be present.
The FDA has classified the recall as a Class III event — the lowest risk category — indicating that consumption of the product is not likely to result in serious health consequences.
However, public health officials still advise caution.
“If you purchased this butter, the safest thing to do is return it to the store where you bought it or dispose of it,” said a spokesperson for Cabot Creamery.
“We’re committed to the highest standards of quality and food safety, and we’re taking every step necessary to ensure our products meet those standards.”
Coliform bacteria are commonly found in the environment, including in soil, vegetation, and untreated water, but their presence in dairy products often points to issues during production or packaging.
Of particular concern are certain strains of E. coli, such as E. coli O157:H7, which can lead to severe illness, especially in young children, the elderly or people with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of E. coli infection can include stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting.
In serious cases, it can lead to kidney failure.
Though the recalled butter has not been linked to any reported illnesses, consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and discard any affected packages.
For those who experience gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming the product, medical attention should be sought.
The FDA and Agri-Mark continue to monitor the situation, and further updates will be provided if necessary.
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