According to Newsweek , A nationwide recall has been issued for over 160,000 pounds of ground beef from Wolverine Packaging Co. after 15 people fell ill with E. coli food poisoning. The recall follows a discovery by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) that a sample of ground beef tested positive for the dangerous E. coli O157 strain, which can lead to severe illness and even death.
The affected beef was produced by Wolverine Packaging Co., based in Detroit, Michigan, and includes products shipped to restaurants across the U.S. While the illnesses were reported in Minnesota, the recalled products were sold nationwide. E. coli O157 can cause symptoms such as dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, typically within 2 to 8 days of exposure. In severe cases, the infection can lead to hemolytic-uremic syndrome, a life-threatening kidney failure condition.
The FSIS was alerted to the contamination after the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Health notified authorities of the illness outbreak on November 13, 2023. A subsequent test on November 20 confirmed the presence of E. coli O157 in a beef sample from Wolverine Packaging Co. The company is currently conducting an internal audit and reviewing its processes to prevent future contamination.
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The recall primarily affects fresh ground beef products with a “use by” date of November 14, 2023, although some frozen items are also involved. All impacted products have a production date of October 22, 2023, and carry the USDA establishment number “EST. 2574B” on their packaging. Consumers and restaurants are urged to discard or return the affected products.
E. coli O157 is a particularly virulent strain of bacteria that requires only a small amount to cause illness. Ground beef, which contains meat from multiple animals, is especially susceptible to contamination, making it a higher-risk product for foodborne pathogens. The FSIS continues to investigate the outbreak in cooperation with Minnesota health officials.
In addition to the beef recall, there are also ongoing recalls for carrots and falafels linked to potential E. coli contamination. Individuals who suspect they may have contracted E. coli food poisoning should seek medical attention immediately. Consumers with questions about food safety can contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854.
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