Nationwide Public Health Alert Issued for Ground Beef Due to Potential E.coli Contamination
A nationwide public health alert has been issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) for ground beef products produced on March 28, with a use/freeze-by date of April 22. Consumers are advised not to consume these products due to the risk of E. coli contamination.
Affected Products:
The products subject to the public health alert bear the establishment number ‘EST. 960A’ within the USDA mark of inspection. They were shipped to food service institutions and retail stores across the country.
Discovery of Contamination:
The contamination was discovered during an inventory of a product that was found to be positive for E. coli O157:H7. A portion of the contaminated beef was used to produce ground beef products that were subsequently shipped for sale.
Concerns and Recommendations:
FSIS is concerned that some of the contaminated beef may still be in freezers in homes or food service establishments. Consumers are urged to discard or return any ground beef products with the specified establishment number. There have been no confirmed reports of illness associated with this recall, but consumers who are concerned about possible exposure should contact their healthcare provider.
Symptoms of E. coli O157:H7 Infection:
E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal cramps within two to eight days of exposure. Most people recover within a week, but some may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure. Symptoms of HUS include easy bruising, pallor, and decreased urine output. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
Preventive Measures:
FSIS recommends that all raw meat, whether fresh or frozen, be cooked to a temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit before consumption to minimize the risk of E. coli infection.
