Wolverine Packing Co., based in Detroit, has initiated a voluntary recall of approximately 167,277 pounds of ground beef products due to potential contamination with E. coli O157:H7. The recall stems from reports by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture regarding a group of individuals who fell ill after consuming the affected ground beef.
The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the USDA announced the details of the recall, noting that the ground beef products include both fresh and frozen varieties. The items have a “use by” date of November 14, 2024, and a production date of October 22, 2024. Consumers can identify the recalled products by the establishment number “EST. 2574B,” which appears within the USDA mark of inspection.
The investigation into the illness cluster began when the FSIS was alerted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Subsequent testing of a ground beef sample linked to the outbreak returned a positive result for E. coli O157 on November 20, 2024. So far, 15 cases have been recorded in Minnesota, with illness onset dates between November 2 and November 10, 2024.
The FSIS is advising restaurants to refrain from serving the recalled products, as they may still be present in restaurant freezers or refrigerators. Consumers who may have purchased the affected ground beef are urged to discard it or return it to the point of purchase. Anyone experiencing symptoms related to E. coli infection, which can include severe abdominal cramps and bloody diarrhea, should seek medical attention.
E. coli O157 is known for producing a potent toxin that can lead to serious health issues. While many people recover from this strain of E. coli in five to seven days, some can develop severe complications that require hospitalization.
This incident highlights the importance of food safety and reinforced measures that can prevent contamination in the food supply. Public health authorities remind consumers of effective practices for food handling and preparation to mitigate risks associated with foodborne illnesses.
Adding a hopeful note, this incident serves as a reminder of the proactive measures taken by health officials and companies alike to swiftly address and resolve food safety issues, ultimately protecting public health.