The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service has announced the recall of over 167,000 pounds of frozen and fresh ground beef products due to possible E. coli contamination. Wolverine Packing Co., a Michigan-based producer, initiated the recall following reports of illness among consumers.
So far, 15 cases of illness have been reported in Minnesota linked to these products. Despite these incidents, no cases have emerged in New England. Testing conducted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture confirmed the presence of E. coli in a sample of the affected ground beef.
The recall includes more than 100 varieties of ground beef sold under various brand names such as Wolverine Packing Co., 1855 Beef, and Farmer’s Choice. Key details of the recalled items are that fresh products have a “use by” date of November 14, 2023, and frozen products have a production date of October 22, 2023. Consumers should check for the establishment number “EST. 2574B” inside the USDA inspection stamp.
To ensure safety, the USDA recommends that anyone who has purchased these products dispose of them or return them to the store. They also emphasize the importance of cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to eliminate harmful bacteria. Additionally, the CDC advises maintaining clean hands, safe food preparation practices, and consuming safe drinking water to prevent E. coli infections.
E. coli, or Escherichia coli, is a common bacterium found in the intestines that usually aids digestion. However, certain strains can lead to severe health issues, including diarrhea, pneumonia, and kidney failure. Symptoms typically appear 3 to 4 days after exposure, with most affected individuals recovering within a week.
It’s essential to stay informed and vigilant when it comes to food safety. While recalls can be concerning, they also serve as a proactive measure to protect public health. By adhering to safe cooking practices and being aware of product recalls, consumers can significantly reduce their risk of foodborne illnesses.