In breaking news, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a recall for over 58,000 pounds of ground beef due to potential contamination with “Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.” The recall was initiated by American Foods Group, LLC, under the name Green Bay Dressed Beef, LCC. The raw ground beef, produced on August 14, 2023, is being recalled in Georgia, Michigan, and Ohio. Although there have been no reported cases of illness, the USDA urges consumers to be cautious and discard any affected meat or return it to the point of purchase for a refund. Symptoms of E. coli infection can include diarrhea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, may affect those who are immunocompromised. To prevent contamination, the FSIS encourages cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F and practicing proper food handling and hygiene procedures.
Recall of Ground Beef
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a recall of more than 58,000 pounds of ground beef due to potential contamination with “Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.” The recall was prompted by a state public health partner who detected the presence of E. coli in a sample and immediately reported it to the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). The raw ground beef in question was produced on August 14, 2023, and the recall affects certain products and lot codes.
Details of the Recall
The recall includes approximately 80-lb. cases containing 10-lb. plastic tubes (chubs) of “90050 BEEF FINE GROUND 81/19” with lot code D123226026, as well as 80-lb. cases containing 10-lb. plastic tubes of “20473 BEEF HALAL FINE GROUND 73/27” and “20105 BEEF FINE GROUND 73/27,” both with lot code D123226027. All the recalled products bear the USDA mark of inspection, “EST. 18076,” on the inside of the packaging. The ground beef was distributed in Georgia, Michigan, and Ohio.
Contamination with E. coli
E. coli is a bacterium commonly found in the intestines of animals, including humans. While most strains are harmless, some can produce toxins that can cause illness in humans. In this recall, the ground beef may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, which can lead to severe symptoms and complications.
Symptoms of E. coli Infection
If consumed, this strain of E. coli can cause illness within two to eight days. The most common symptoms include diarrhea, which may be bloody, and vomiting. While most people recover within a week, some individuals, particularly those who are immunocompromised, may experience more severe symptoms and complications. It is important to seek medical attention if any symptoms of E. coli infection are experienced.
Preventative Measures
To reduce the risk of E. coli infection, it is important to take certain preventative measures. The FSIS advises consumers to only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160°F, as this temperature is high enough to kill harmful bacteria. Other preventative measures include:
- Keeping cooking spaces clean and maintaining good hygiene practices, such as washing hands thoroughly with hot soapy water before and after handling raw meat.
- Cleaning utensils, cutting boards, and other cooking tools with hot soapy water to prevent cross-contamination.
- Keeping raw meat separate from other foods, using separate cutting boards and utensils to avoid spreading bacteria.
Cooking Guidelines
To ensure ground beef is cooked thoroughly and reduce the risk of E. coli contamination, it is recommended to cook ground beef to a minimum internal temperature of 160°F. This can be measured using a food thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat.
Additional Tips for Avoiding E. coli Contamination
In addition to cooking ground beef thoroughly, there are other precautions that can be taken to minimize the risk of E. coli contamination:
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consuming, as they can also be a source of E. coli.
- Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, including ground beef and other meats.
- Practice good food safety habits, such as storing perishable foods at the appropriate temperature and avoiding cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.
Disposal of Recalled Ground Beef
Consumers who have purchased the recalled ground beef products should discard them immediately or return them to the point of purchase for a refund. It is important to handle and dispose of the meat properly to prevent any potential contamination.
Contact Information for Inquiries
For any specific questions or concerns regarding the recall, consumers can contact American Foods Group directly at 1-800-829-2838. It is advisable to reach out to the company for further assistance or clarification.
Conclusion
The recall of more than 58,000 pounds of ground beef due to potential E. coli contamination highlights the importance of food safety and proper cooking practices. By following cooking guidelines and taking preventative measures, consumers can reduce the risk of E. coli infection and ensure their safety. It is crucial to discard any recalled ground beef and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection. Consumers can contact American Foods Group for more information and assistance regarding the recall.
