Great Value cottage cheese sold at Walmart is being recalled in parts of the United States after regulators raised concerns that a liquid dairy ingredient used in certain batches may not have been fully pasteurized. The notice says no illnesses have been reported, but warns that consuming dairy products that are not fully pasteurized can carry a significant health risk for people who are most vulnerable to foodborne illness.
The recalled items were produced by Saputo Cheese USA Inc. and sold under Walmart’s Great Value label. Distribution to Walmart stores and distribution centers occurred between February 17 and February 20, 2026, according to the recall notice.
Why this recall matters
Pasteurization is a safety step designed to reduce the risk of harmful bacteria in dairy by heating ingredients to specific temperatures for specific time periods. When ingredients may not be fully pasteurized, public-health officials typically treat the situation with caution because certain pathogens can pose greater danger to high-risk groups.
The recall notice highlights elevated risk for young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. If anyone in your household falls into those groups, it is especially important to check the product details closely and avoid consuming recalled items.
Where the recalled cottage cheese was sold
The affected products were distributed to Walmart stores and distribution centers in 24 states: Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
If you purchased Great Value cottage cheese recently in any of these states, the key is to match the product name, size, UPC, and the Best If Used By date listed on your container.
Recalled products and identifiers
Great Value Fat Free Small Curd Cottage Cheese – 0% Milkfat
Size: 24 oz container
UPC: 078742373393
Best If Used By: APR-01-26, APR-03-26
Great Value Lowfat Small Curd Cottage Cheese – 2% Milkfat
Size: 24 oz container
UPC: 078742116730
Best If Used By: APR-01-26, APR-02-26, APR-03-26
Great Value Small Curd Cottage Cheese – 4% milkfat minimum
Size: 16 oz container
UPC: 078742372358
Best If Used By: APR-02-26
Great Value Small Curd Cottage Cheese – 4% milkfat minimum
Size: 24 oz container
UPC: 078742372365
Best If Used By: APR-02-26, APR-03-26
Great Value Small Curd Cottage Cheese – 4% milkfat minimum
Size: 3 lb container
UPC: 078742147970
Best If Used By: APR-01-26, APR-02-26
What to do if you bought one
Customers who purchased any of the recalled products are advised to not consume them. The guidance is to either dispose of the product or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you already ate the product and feel unwell, especially if you are in a high-risk group, consider contacting a healthcare professional for advice.
For the official recall details and any updates, refer to the FDA’s recalls and safety alerts page.
How to double-check your container quickly
- Look for the Great Value brand name and confirm the cottage cheese variety (0%, 2%, or 4%).
- Match the container size (16 oz, 24 oz, or 3 lb).
- Verify the UPC printed on the label.
- Check the Best If Used By date; only the dates listed above are included.
Recalls like this are issued to remove potentially unsafe products from circulation quickly. If your container matches the identifiers listed, returning it and replacing it with an unaffected product is the safest step.
