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

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.