The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is warning consumers about headcheese produced by Crawford Sausage Co. (Est. 21406) after samples tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria responsible for listeriosis.
The affected headcheese, a ready-to-eat pork deli product, was produced on January 20, 2026, and sold in retail delis under the “DAISY BRAND Meat Products HEADCHEESE” label. Some packages may include a red “HOT” sticker.
All affected products carry the “USE BY” date of March 26, 2026 and the USDA establishment number EST. 21406. Distribution was limited to Illinois and Indiana.
FSIS and Illinois public health officials are investigating a localized outbreak of listeriosis involving three people in Illinois. The agency urges consumers who may have purchased the product to discard it or return it and to thoroughly clean refrigerators to prevent cross-contamination.
Listeriosis is a serious infection that can cause fever, muscle aches, headaches, stiff neck, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at greatest risk. Anyone in a high-risk group who develops flu-like symptoms within two months after consuming the product should seek medical attention immediately.
Retail delis that handled the product should clean and sanitize all surfaces and discard any open meats and cheeses that may have been stored with the affected headcheese.
Quick Summary
- Production Date: January 20, 2026
- Use By Date: March 26, 2026
- Affected Locations: Retail delis in Illinois and Indiana
- Positive Test Confirmation: May 14, 2026 (headcheese tested positive for outbreak strain)
- Public Health Alert Issued: May 9, 2026
- Consumer Actions: Discard or return product, clean refrigerator thoroughly
- High-Risk Groups: Older adults, pregnant women, persons with weakened immune systems
- FSIS Contact: 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854), MPHotline@usda.gov, or online complaint form at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/.