E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders Causes Chain Reaction Among Fast Food Brands
Multiple Chains Remove Onions from Menu Following Reports of E. coli Outbreak
Burger King, Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut have all taken steps to address concerns surrounding a recent E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders. The outbreak has been reported across multiple states, with 49 cases, 10 hospitalizations, and one reported death.
Statement from Burger King
In a statement to TODAY.com, a Burger King spokesperson said, "We have reviewed our restaurant supply given recent announcements. There is no crossover with McDonald’s for the vast majority of our onion facilities." However, the spokesperson added that about 5% of their restaurants receive onions from the Taylor Farms Colorado facility.
Burger King emphasized that their restaurants only use whole, fresh onions, which are cut, peeled, washed, and sliced daily. As a precaution, they have asked the affected restaurants to dispose of the onions and are restocking them from other facilities.
Statement from Yum! Brands
A Yum! Brands spokesperson confirmed that onions were removed from some Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and KFC locations. The spokesperson stated, "As we continue to monitor the recently reported E. coli outbreak, and out of an abundance of caution, we have proactively removed fresh onions from select Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and KFC restaurants. We will continue following supplier and regulatory guidance to ensure the ongoing safety and quality of our food."
Background on the E. coli Outbreak
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a food safety alert on October 20, reporting an E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders. The CDC is investigating the outbreak to determine which food ingredient caused the contamination.
Current Situation
As of October 23, the CDC reported 49 cases, 10 hospitalizations, and one reported death. The outbreak has been linked to McDonald’s locations in multiple states, including Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and parts of Idaho.
Conclusion
The E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has raised concerns among fast food consumers, prompting reaction from multiple brands. Burger King, Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut have all taken steps to address the issue by removing onions from their menus. As the investigation continues, consumers should be aware of the potential risks associated with foodborne illnesses and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
FAQs
Q: What is the current number of reported cases?
A: As of October 23, the CDC reported 49 cases of E. coli.
Q: What states are affected by the outbreak?
A: The outbreak has been linked to McDonald’s locations in multiple states, including Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and parts of Idaho.
Q: What steps have been taken by Burger King and Yum! Brands?
A: Burger King has removed onions from about 5% of its restaurants, while Yum! Brands has removed fresh onions from select Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and KFC locations.
Q: What is the current status of the investigation?
A: The CDC is investigating the outbreak to determine which food ingredient caused the contamination. The FDA is also looking into the supplier as the potential source of the outbreak.
