McDonald’s E. coli Outbreak Expands, Affecting 75 Across 13 States
In a troubling development, an outbreak of E. coli poisoning linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has expanded, with federal health officials reporting that at least 75 individuals have fallen ill across 13 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that 22 of these individuals have been hospitalized, with two suffering from severe kidney complications. Tragically, one death has been reported in Colorado.
As investigations continue, no definitive source of the outbreak has been identified. However, preliminary analyses by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggest that uncooked slivered onions used on the burgers are a likely source of contamination.
In response to the outbreak, Taylor Farms, a California-based produce grower that supplies raw slivered onions to McDonald’s, has issued a voluntary recall for yellow onions due to potential E. coli contamination. McDonald’s has confirmed that the recalled onions were sent to a specific distribution point and were utilized in the restaurants implicated in the outbreak.
While McDonald’s has not publicly identified the distribution point, the fast-food giant has taken proactive measures by removing the Quarter Pounder from menus in several states, primarily in the Midwest and Mountain regions, following the outbreak announcement on Tuesday.
Another fast-food chain, which operates Burger King restaurants, has also taken precautions. This company sources whole onions from Taylor Farms’ Colorado facility but has ceased their use despite no reported illnesses linked to their products.
The CDC’s latest report indicates a significant rise in cases, jumping from an initial count of 49 illnesses in 10 states. The majority of reported cases have emerged from Colorado, accounting for 26 sick individuals. Other states affected include Montana with 13 cases, Nebraska with 11, and smaller numbers reported in New Mexico, Utah, Missouri, Wyoming, Michigan, Iowa, Kansas, Oregon, Wisconsin, and Washington.
Many of those who have fallen ill reported traveling to other states prior to the onset of their symptoms, with at least three individuals confirming that they dined at McDonald’s during their travels. The illnesses have been traced back to a period between September 27 and October 11.
Despite the growing number of cases, McDonald’s has not removed the Quarter Pounder from additional restaurants, citing that travel appears to be a contributing factor in some of the reported illnesses.
While Taylor Farms has communicated the onion recall directly to its customers, the company has not made a public announcement regarding the recall. According to an FDA official, it is common for companies to issue press releases and for the FDA to send out public notifications for recalls, but it is not a legal requirement.
As the situation develops, health officials continue to monitor the outbreak closely, urging individuals who may have consumed the implicated products to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms associated with E. coli infection.
Health experts emphasize the importance of food safety and the need for consumers to stay informed about potential foodborne illness outbreaks. The CDC recommends that anyone experiencing severe gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly after consuming food from fast-food establishments, should consult with healthcare providers promptly.
In light of this outbreak, the FDA and CDC are collaborating with state health departments to investigate the source of the contamination thoroughly. Public health officials are advising consumers to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid potential exposure to contaminated food products.
The situation serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring food safety across the nation. As investigations continue, both federal and state health officials are committed to identifying the root cause of the outbreak and preventing further illnesses.
