he FDA, along with CDC, state and local partners, investigated a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to the consumption of Jule’s Cashew Brie, a vegan, or plant-based cheese alternative. On April 23, 2021, Jule’s Foods of Carlsbad, California, conducted a voluntary recall of all varieties of Jule’s Foods products.
As of July 7, 2021, CDC announced that the outbreak is over. There are a total of 20 illnesses in four states. Two additional strains of Salmonella, Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Chester, have been linked to this outbreak. The illnesses of Salmonella Chester have the same genetic fingerprint as Salmonella found in a sample of Jule’s Cashew Brie collected by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
Illnesses of Salmonella Duisburg and Salmonella Urbana have been previously reported and are linked to this outbreak. Other strains of Salmonella have been identified in raw and finished product samples and environmental samples but have not been linked to illnesses.
Based on FDA traceback investigation and sample results, the cashews used by Jule’s Foods have been identified as the likely source of contamination in the Jule’s Cashew Brie products. The FDA worked with the cashew supplier to ensure that potentially contaminated product was removed from the market and that the supplier implemented corrective actions.
Recommendation
CDC announced that the outbreak is over. There are no recommendations for consumers, restaurants, or retailers.
Product Images
Map of U.S. Distribution of Recalled Jule’s Foods Products
Case Count Map Provided by CDC
Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 20
Hospitalizations: 5
Deaths: 0
Last Illness Onset: May 9, 2021
States with Cases: CA (15), FL (2), MD (1), TN (2)
Product Distribution*: Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas
*Distribution has been confirmed for states listed, but product could have been distributed further, reaching additional states
