U.S. Agency Reports More E. coli Cases Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders
E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders
Federal agencies have reported more cases of E. coli infections linked to meals at McDonald’s restaurants. While none of the sicknesses are in the Chicago area, cases have been reported in Michigan, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Iowa.
Investigation Ongoing
According to authorities, people became ill after eating Quarter Pounder burgers and investigators are examining their slivered onions as a possible culprit.
Slivered Onions Linked to Outbreak
McDonald’s has announced that slivered onions purchased from a Colorado Springs location of Taylor Farms were distributed to approximately 900 McDonald’s restaurants in Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming, and portions of other states in the area. A select number of restaurants were in transportation hubs, such as airports, which may account for illnesses in additional states. The company has stopped selling Quarter Pounders in targeted states.
Food Safety Consultant Weighs In
Bart Dobek, a Chicago-based food safety consultant, said McDonald’s has an excellent reputation for food handling and cleanliness. However, he noted that problems can occur when fast-food chains don’t properly oversee suppliers. "Everything is connected in the food supply chain," he said.
Supplier Under Scrutiny
Taylor Farms, which markets salad blends, has issued a voluntary onion recall covering various customers. The company has not responded to requests for comment. It is unclear if Taylor Farms acquires whole onions from outside growers.
Outbreak Statistics
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the pathogen has made 75 people sick in 13 states, mostly in Colorado, Montana, and Nebraska. Of those, 22 people have been hospitalized, and one, an older adult in Colorado, has died.
E. coli Contamination
E. coli contamination often occurs when produce fields are near cattle farms. Runoff from the cattle farms spreads the bacteria to the produce.
Industry Reaction
Restaurant chains such as Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC, and Burger King have removed onions from some menus as a precaution. US Foods Holding, a supplier to restaurants and companies in food service, has also asked customers not to use onions it bought from Taylor Farms Colorado.
Conclusion
The E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the need for vigilance in the food supply chain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many people have been affected by the E. coli outbreak?
A: 75 people in 13 states.
Q: Where did the contaminated onions come from?
A: Slivered onions purchased from a Colorado Springs location of Taylor Farms.
Q: What is the source of the E. coli contamination?
A: E. coli contamination often occurs when produce fields are near cattle farms, where runoff from the cattle farms can spread the bacteria to the produce.
Q: What is McDonald’s doing in response to the outbreak?
A: McDonald’s has stopped selling Quarter Pounders in targeted states and is cooperating fully with food regulators.
Q: What is Taylor Farms doing in response to the outbreak?
A: Taylor Farms has issued a voluntary onion recall covering various customers, but has not responded to requests for comment.
