Idaho-Based Food Manufacturer Recalls Ground Beef Due to Potential E. coli Contamination

A significant food safety recall has been issued by a leading Idaho-based food manufacturer, affecting approximately 2,855 pounds of ground beef products. The recall is due to potential contamination with E. coli, a type of bacteria that can cause severe foodborne illness.

Background on the Recall

The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the voluntary recall of the affected ground beef products. According to FSIS, the recall was initiated after a routine inspection at one of the manufacturer's facilities revealed potential contamination with E. coli.

Ground Beef Products Affected

The recalled ground beef products were manufactured by a company based in Idaho and distributed to various retailers across the country. The affected products include:

• Ground beef ( Various weights and sizes)
• Ground beef patties
• Ground beef burgers

Potential Health Risks

Consumers who have purchased or are about to purchase the recalled ground beef products are advised to exercise caution when handling and consuming these products.

According to the USDA, E. coli can cause severe foodborne illness, including:

• Severe diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Blood in stool
• Abdominal cramps

What to Do If You've Been Affected

If you believe you have consumed any of the recalled ground beef products and are experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection, please seek medical attention immediately.

To minimize potential risks, consumers can take the following steps:

• Discard all recalled ground beef products: Check your refrigerator and freezer for any affected products and discard them promptly.
• Wash hands thoroughly: Before and after handling food, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Clean and sanitize surfaces: Thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces that came into contact with the recalled ground beef products.

Additional Information

For more information on the recall, including a list of retailers that received the affected products, please visit the USDA's FSIS website: www.fsis.usda.gov.

Consumers can also contact the manufacturer or their local health department for further guidance.

Preventing Foodborne Illness

To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, consumers can take several steps:

• Handle and store food safely: Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) and cook them to the recommended internal temperature.
• Wash hands thoroughly: Before and after handling food, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Clean and sanitize surfaces: Thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces that came into contact with raw meat, poultry, or seafood.

By taking these precautions, consumers can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illness and enjoy a safe and healthy diet.