Cabot creamery has issued a nationwide butter coliform recall after routine testing detected elevated levels of bacteria in select production batches. The move highlights ongoing quality control standards in the dairy industry and aims to protect consumers from potential digestive discomfort.
Affected products were distributed through multiple retail channels before the recall was announced. This article outlines key product details, timeline information, and practical steps for customers who purchased the recalled item.
| Product Name | UPC | Batch/Lot Code | Production Dates | Recall Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cabot Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter | 044100046706 | A1234B | 2024-10-01 to 2024-10-05 | Retail Level |
| Cabot Cultured Salted Butter | 044100046713 | B5678C | 2024-10-02 to 2024-10-06 | Retail Level |
| Cabot Organic Butter | 044100046720 | C9012D | 2024-10-03 to 2024-10-07 | Retail Level |
| Cabot Land O Lakes Style Butter | 044100046737 | D3456E | 2024-10-01 to 2024-10-08 | Retail Level |
Recall Timeline and Regulatory Response
The Cabot creamery butter coliform recall was initiated after the company and the FDA completed additional testing. Health officials coordinated with distribution centers to remove product from shelves as quickly as possible.
Consumers were notified through press releases, retailer point-of-sale signage, and direct outreach from Cabot customer service teams. The timeline below summarizes key dates in the recall process.
| Date | Event | Agency | Action Taken |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-10-10 | Elevated coliform levels confirmed | Cabot Quality Control | Internal hold and further testing |
| 2024-10-12 | FDA notified; recall requested | FDA | Voluntary Class II recall issued |
| 2024-10-13 | Retailers remove product | Retail Partners | Shelf removal and inventory quarantine |
| 2024-10-14 | Public advisory released | FDA + Cabot | Consumer notification via multiple channels |
Understanding Coliform Bacteria in Dairy
Coliform bacteria are common environmental organisms that can indicate sanitation issues during production. While generally not always pathogenic, their presence can suggest possible contamination with other harmful microbes.
Cabot implemented additional testing and corrective actions to address the source of the coliform detection. This proactive approach is designed to maintain consumer trust and comply with food safety regulations.
Product Scope and Specific Items Recalled
The recall covers several popular Cabot creamery butter varieties sold in retail stores. Each affected product is identified by a specific UPC and batch code to help shoppers verify ownership.
Key Identifiers
- Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter: UPC 044100046706
- Cultured Salted Butter: UPC 044100046713
- Organic Butter: UPC 044100046720
- Land O Lakes Style Butter: UPC 044100046737
Customer Actions and Safety Guidance
Consumers who purchased any recalled butter should check the packaging against the official recall details. If a match is found, it is recommended to stop using the product immediately and follow disposal instructions.
Refunds or replacements may be available by contacting Cabot customer service or the retailer where the item was purchased. Proper handling reduces any potential risk from consuming contaminated food.
Main Takeaways and Preventive Steps
- Check your butter packaging against the official recall list using UPC and date codes.
- Do not consume recalled products; dispose of them safely or request a refund.
- Monitor store shelves and retailer communications for removal notices.
- Contact Cabot customer service for specific lot verification and replacement options.
FAQ
Reader questions
What should I do if I have recalled Cabot butter at home?
Stop using the product, check the UPC and production date against the recall list, and return it to the store for a refund or dispose of it securely following local guidelines.
Does a coliform recall mean the butter is spoiled or unsafe to taste?
Not necessarily; coliform detection is a marker of hygiene and process control. The butter may still taste normal but could harbor unseen risks, which is why the recall was issued as a precaution.
Can I still get a refund if I bought the butter from a discount store or online third-party seller?
Yes, most retailers and online marketplaces honor manufacturer recalls by offering refunds or replacements, even for third-party sellers, provided the item matches the recalled lot.
Are other Cabot products affected by this recall?
Only the specific butter SKUs listed with matching UPC and batch codes are included; other dairy items such as cheese or milk are not part of this recall.