Trend Report
Cream Cheese Recall 2026: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe
Updated September 8, 2026
A new cream cheese recall has been issued due to potential Listeria contamination, affecting dozens of products sold in New York. If you've recently bought cream cheese or deli salads, you need to check your fridge now. Here's the full recall list, symptoms to watch for, and steps to get a refund.
Key takeaways
- ✓Made Fresh Salads recalled 68 products, including 25 cream cheese varieties, due to Listeria risk.
- ✓Recalled items were sold in NYC and Long Island; check your fridge for the brand.
- ✓Listeria symptoms include fever and muscle aches; seek medical care if severe.
- ✓Dispose of recalled products or return for a refund; clean your fridge thoroughly.
- ✓National brands like Philadelphia are not affected by this recall.
What Products Are Recalled? Full Cream Cheese Recall List
Made Fresh Salads, based in Bay Shore, New York, has voluntarily recalled 68 deli salads and cream cheese products due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recall includes 25 varieties of cream cheese, such as plain, strawberry, and chive flavors, sold under the Made Fresh Salads brand.
Products were distributed to retailers and food service locations in New York City and Long Island. The recall affects items with sell-by dates ranging from late June to early August 2026. For a complete list of brand names, UPC codes, and best-by dates, check the FDA recall notice or our detailed buying guide.
Which Brands Are Affected by the Cream Cheese Recall?
The recall covers cream cheese products sold under the Made Fresh Salads brand. These are typically found in deli counters or as part of pre-packaged party trays. If you purchased cream cheese from a local deli or supermarket in the NYC area, check the packaging for the Made Fresh Salads label.
No national brands like Philadelphia or store brands are affected. However, if you're unsure whether your product is part of the recall, look for the establishment number and lot code on the container. When in doubt, throw it out.
What Should I Do If I Bought Recalled Cream Cheese?
If you have any recalled products, do not eat them. Dispose of them immediately in a sealed bag, or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Clean your refrigerator thoroughly to prevent cross-contamination.
To get a refund, contact the store where you bought the item. Many retailers will offer a refund with proof of purchase, but even without a receipt, you may be able to get a refund if you bring the product. Keep the packaging or take a photo of the label for reference.
Listeria Symptoms: What to Watch For
Listeria infection can cause fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. Symptoms typically appear within 1 to 4 weeks after eating contaminated food, but can take up to 70 days. High-risk groups include pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
If you experience severe symptoms like stiff neck, confusion, or seizures, seek medical care immediately. Pregnant women may experience only mild flu-like symptoms but can pass the infection to their baby, leading to serious complications. If you think you've eaten recalled cream cheese and feel unwell, contact your healthcare provider.
Safe Alternatives: Cream Cheese Brands Not Affected
While the recall is limited to Made Fresh Salads products, you may be looking for safe alternatives. National brands like Philadelphia, Organic Valley, and store brands are not affected by this recall. Always check the label to ensure you're not buying a recalled product.
For a comprehensive list of safe options and tips on choosing cream cheese, see our buying guide. It includes brand recommendations and details on how to verify product safety.
How to Clean Your Fridge After a Listeria Recall
Listeria can survive in cold temperatures and easily spread to other foods. After removing recalled products, clean your refrigerator with hot, soapy water, then sanitize with a solution of 1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of water. Pay special attention to shelves, drawers, and any surfaces that came into contact with the recalled items.
Wipe down all containers and packaging that were near the recalled products. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling any potentially contaminated items. If you have any open packages of cream cheese or deli salads, it's safest to discard them.
Ready to shop?
We independently tested products related to this trend on Amazon.
See our cream cheese recall buying guide →Frequently asked questions
usonlinetrends publishes independent trend reports and buying guides. This article is editorial — not sponsored by brands mentioned.