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What Ground Beef Was Recalled Recently Due to E.Coli Contamination?

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Ground beef is a staple ingredient in many households. From hamburgers to meatballs it’s a versatile and affordable protein source for families across America. However, raw ground beef can also be a source of foodborne illnesses if not handled properly. Recently, there has been a major recall of raw ground beef products due to possible E.coli O157 H7 contamination.

Over 167,000 Pounds of Ground Beef Recalled

In November 2024, Wolverine Packing Co., based in Detroit, Michigan, recalled approximately 167,277 pounds of fresh and frozen ground beef products. This Class I recall was initiated after a cluster of E.coli illnesses were reported in Minnesota.

The recall included both fresh and frozen ground beef items with various “use by” dates. The fresh products had a use by date of 11/14/2024, while the frozen items had a use by date of 10/22/2024 You can view the full list of recalled ground beef products here

E.Coli Illness Outbreak in Minnesota

This extensive ground beef recall was sparked by an investigation into 15 E.coli cases in Minnesota. The illnesses were reported between November 2-10, 2024, with patients experiencing symptoms consistent with E.coli infection.

State health officials determined that the patients shared a common link – consumption of ground beef prior to falling ill. Further investigation found that the ground beef originated from Wolverine Packing Co. In fact, a ground beef sample collected by Minnesota authorities tested positive for E.coli O157 on November 20, 2024.

Given the definitive link between the company’s products and illnesses, Wolverine Packing Co. issued a recall notice. The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) published the official recall details and product list on November 20, 2024.

Why E.Coli in Ground Beef is Dangerous

E.coli O157:H7 is a Shiga toxin-producing type of E.coli that can cause severe food poisoning. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it takes just a tiny amount – about 10 bacteria or less – to make someone sick.

Once ingested, E.coli O157:H7 can lead to painful stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting and other gastroenteritis symptoms. While most people recover within 5-7 days, some individuals develop a potentially life-threatening complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).

HUS mainly impacts young children and causes kidney failure. The kidney damage often requires dialysis and can lead to other lifelong complications.

Ground beef is especially high-risk for E.coli contamination because the grinding process can mix bacteria throughout the meat. Just one contaminated piece can contaminate a large batch. Proper cooking kills E.coli, but any cross-contamination after cooking can still spread the pathogen.

This is why it’s critical for retailers and consumers to follow the recall notice and dispose of any recalled ground beef products.

Where Was the Recalled Beef Shipped?

According to the USDA recall notice, the recalled ground beef products were shipped to restaurant locations nationwide. The items did not appear to be available for direct consumer purchase in grocery stores.

However, FSIS advised all restaurants to check their inventories and dispose of any recalled ground beef to prevent potential E.coli illnesses. Freezers and storage coolers should be inspected to ensure no recalled products remain.

As a consumer, it’s always a smart food safety practice to inquire about the source of ground beef when dining out. Restaurants should be able to tell you the supplier of their ground beef and confirm it is not part of the recall.

Steps to Stay Safe from E.Coli

While this major ground beef recall aims to remove contaminated products from commerce, proper handling and cooking of ground beef is still important for consumers. Here are some tips to avoid E.coli infections:

  • Cook ground beef thoroughly to 160°F as measured by a food thermometer. E.coli is killed at high temperatures.

  • Prevent cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards, utensils, and plates for raw beef. Never place cooked food back on surfaces/utensils that touched raw meat.

  • Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after working with raw ground beef.

  • Refrigerate promptly to prevent bacterial overgrowth. Ground beef should be used within 1-2 days of purchase.

  • Avoid undercooked ground beef such as rare hamburgers. E.coli risk is highest with undercooked meat.

This major ground beef recall underscores the importance of proper handling, cooking, and consumer awareness about beef safety. Following the recall guidelines and implementing safe ground beef practices are the best ways to protect your health against foodborne E.coli.

what ground beef was recalled

FAQ

What Tyson ground beef is on recall?

The raw, ground beef items were produced on November 2, 2022. The following products are subject to recall [view labels]: 10-lb. chubs containing “HILL COUNTRY FARE GROUND BEEF 73% LEAN/ 27% FAT with BEST BEFORE OR FREEZE BY: NOV 25, 2022.”

How do I know if my meat was recalled?

The complete list of recalls released by USDA/FSIS can be found on the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Recalls & Public Health Alerts webpage.

Is Walmart ground beef on recall?

AI Overview
    • YouTube  ·  WBNS 10TV
      https://www.youtube.com
      Ground beef sold at Walmart recalled for possible E. Coli contamination
      May 2, 2024 — and we’re back with a consumer alert right now check your refrigerator. check your freezer walmart is recalling more than 16,000 pounds of ground bee…

    • USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service
      https://www.fsis.usda.gov
      Cargill Meat Solutions Recalls Ground Beef Products Due to Possible E …
      May 1, 2024 — coli O157:H7 Contamination. … WASHINGTON, May 1, 2024 – Cargill Meat Solutions, a Hazleton, Pa., establishment, is recalling approximately 16,243 p…

    • Oregon Public Broadcasting – OPB
      https://www.opb.org
      More than 16,000 pounds of ground beef sold at Walmart recalled …
      May 4, 2024 — coli risk. … May 4, 2024 10:48 a.m. The recalled beef products above were produced on April 26 and April 27. … Over 16,000 pounds of ground beef …

    • YouTube  ·  NEWS CENTER Maine
      https://www.youtube.com
      Ground beef sold at Walmart in the U.S. recalled – YouTube
      May 3, 2024 — if you happen to buy ground beef at Walmart. recently the US Department of Agriculture. says it might not be safe to eat the department has recalled …

Is this ground beef safe to eat?

ground beef needs to be cooked to 160 f to be 100% safe. color isn’t a good indicator of doneness because it can still be pink sometimes depending on spices and type of cooking.

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