NEWTON, Iowa – Maytag Dairy Farms is expanding its voluntary recall of Maytag Blue blue cheese wedges, wheels and crumbles because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria bacteria, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The organism can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with this issue.

This expanded recall includes 1-, 4- and 8-ounce wedges, 2- and 4-pounds wheels, 8-ounce crumbles and 5-pound crumbles. The recalled product was sold between Nov. 24, 2015, and Feb. 11, 2016. 

The potential for contamination was discovered after testing by the state of Iowa revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in two lots of product.

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged to discard them immediately and not consume them. Customers can call Maytag Dairy Farms at 800-247-2458 or 641-791-2010 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST to arrange for a refund and return of the product.