Eagle Distributors, Inc. Recalls "Mragowski Cheese" Because of Possible Health Risk

		
Media Contacts:      Christine Podmanski
                     773-775-5777

For Immediate Release

Chicago, IL - February 11, 1999 - Eagle Distributors, Inc., Chicago, IL, is recalling 300 lbs of "Mragowski cheese" because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and 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 among pregnant women.

Product was distributed in the following states: Illinois, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Sold to retail food stores in the Polish ethnic market.

The cheese is sold wholesale in blocks approximately 13 lbs in a red plastic wrapping. The label reads "Ser Mragowski Pelnotlusty." It is sold at retail in chunks or sliced for sandwiches.

The recall was the result of a sampling program of the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets which revealed that the finished product contained the bacteria. Eagle Distributors has ceased the distribution of the product.

Consumers who have purchased "Mragowski cheese" are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 773-775-5777.

(Hypertext created by tg 1999-FEB-16)