This article has been updated since its initial publish date as the recalled beef did not go to grocery stores.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the withdrawal of approximately 167,277 pounds of ground beef from the market due to a possible E. coli contamination. This recall pertains to products from Wolverine Packing Co., situated in Detroit, Michigan.
These goods, as WKBN 27 reports, were distributed to various dining establishments across the nation. The fresh beef items are marked with a use-by date of November 14th of this year, while the frozen products were manufactured on October 22nd.
Wolverine Packing Co. Is Recalling 83 Lbs Of Ground Beef
As stated in the USDA notice, the compromised items are identified by the establishment number "EST. 2574B." Comprehensive lists detailing the affected products and their labels can be obtained from the USDA. According to the notice, the issue was identified when the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) received information from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture about a cluster of individuals who fell ill after eating ground beef.
A sample of the ground beef, collected by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture during an investigation into the outbreak, tested positive for E. coli O157. As of now, 15 individuals in a single state have been diagnosed with illnesses that started between November 2nd and November 10th of this year.
The USDA announced that the FSIS is still collaborating with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Health on this investigation. The USDA warns that E. coli O157:H7 is a dangerous bacterium that may lead to severe dehydration, bloody diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
These symptoms typically last from 2 to 8 days, with an average duration of 3 to 4 days. The agency noted that people may suffer from a form of kidney failure known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Anyone experiencing these symptoms should urgently seek emergency medical attention.
The USDA advised consumers to dispose of the items and recommended that restaurants refrain from offering them.
As stated in the press release, individuals are advised to properly cook their raw meat items, whether fresh or frozen, and ensure that ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F before consumption. Additionally, it is recommended to use a food thermometer during preparation.
