E. coli Outbreak: Ground Beef Products Recalled
Public Health Alert Issued by USDA
Health Officials Warn of Potential Contamination
The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli bacteria. The announcement follows a series of recalls issued last week for contaminated ground beef and organic walnuts.
Over 100 people have fallen ill with E. coli since May 25, with the majority of cases linked to a single outbreak. The FSIS is urging consumers not to consume ground beef produced by Greater Omaha Packing, specifically products with the establishment number "EST. 2609" on the label.
E. coli bacteria can cause serious health problems, including abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and dehydration. In severe cases, it can lead to kidney failure and even death. The USDA advises consumers to cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to kill any potential bacteria.
The FSIS is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to investigate the outbreak and identify the source of the contamination. The agency is also conducting inspections of Greater Omaha Packing's facilities to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Public health officials remind consumers to practice good food hygiene practices to prevent the spread of E. coli, including:
- Washing hands thoroughly before and after handling food
- Cooking meat to a safe internal temperature
- Separating raw meat from other foods
- Avoiding contact with people who are sick with diarrhea
For more information about the E. coli outbreak and recall, consumers can visit the USDA's website or call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHOTLINE (1-888-674-6854).
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