Ground beef recalled in WA, elsewhere after testing finds E. coli - The Seattle Times

Ground Beef Contamination Alert: 6 States Advised to Avoid Products

A recent outbreak of E. coli contamination in ground beef products has prompted federal authorities to issue a warning to consumers in six states, including Washington, and advise them to avoid certain products from an Idaho-based company.

What Happened?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), multiple samples of ground beef products were tested for E. coli contamination after a cluster of illnesses was reported in several states. The testing confirmed that these products had indeed been contaminated with the bacteria.

Which States Are Affected?

Consumers in six states have been advised to avoid certain ground beef products:

• Washington
• Oregon
• Idaho
• Montana
• Wyoming
• Minnesota

It is essential for residents of these states to check the packaging of their ground beef products for any signs of contamination or recall.

What Should I Do?

If you are a consumer in one of the affected states, here are some steps you can take:

1. Check Your Products: Inspect your ground beef products and look for any signs of contamination, such as an off smell or slimy texture.
2. Recall Check: Visit the USDA's website or contact the Idaho-based company directly to see if their products have been recalled due to E. coli contamination.
3. Discard or Return: If your product has been contaminated or is part of a recall, discard it immediately or return it to the store where you purchased it for a refund.

What Causes E. coli Contamination?

E. coli contamination in ground beef products can occur due to various factors, including:

• Poor Handling and Processing: Inadequate handling and processing procedures can lead to cross-contamination of bacteria on surfaces or equipment.
• Insufficient Cooking: If ground beef is not cooked to a sufficient internal temperature (at least 160°F), it may contain E. coli bacteria.
• Contaminated Feed: If cattle are fed contaminated feed, they may excrete the bacteria in their feces, which can then be present on the meat.

What Are the Health Risks?

E. coli contamination can pose significant health risks to consumers, particularly those with weakened immune systems or infants and pregnant women. These individuals are more susceptible to severe illness from E. coli infections.

• Diarrhea: Consuming contaminated ground beef products can lead to diarrhea, which may be bloody.
• Vomiting: In some cases, E. coli contamination can cause vomiting, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
• Kidney Failure: In rare instances, E. coli infection can lead to kidney failure.

What Is Being Done?

Federal authorities are working to identify the source of the contamination and take corrective action to prevent future outbreaks.

• Investigation: The CDC, FSIS, and other federal agencies are conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the contamination.
• Recall: Products contaminated with E. coli have been recalled from stores, and retailers are being asked to remove them from shelves.
• Education: Public health officials are providing education and guidance to consumers on how to safely handle and cook ground beef products.

Conclusion

The recent outbreak of E. coli contamination in ground beef products is a serious public health concern that requires immediate attention. Consumers in six states have been advised to avoid certain products from an Idaho-based company due to testing confirming contamination with E. coli. By following proper food safety guidelines and taking steps to ensure the safe handling and cooking of ground beef products, we can minimize the risk of illness and prevent future outbreaks.