Taylor Farms Recalls Slivered Yellow Onions Linked to E. Coli Outbreak in McDonald’s Quarter Pounders

Taylor Farms recalls slivered yellow onions after E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders sickens over 100 people across 14 states.

Recall Details and Outbreak Scope

On October 22, Taylor Farms initiated a recall of thousands of cases of slivered yellow onions due to potential E. coli contamination. The recall, which affected McDonald’s restaurants and other food service customers in multiple states, has been classified as a Class I risk by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This classification indicates the highest level of concern for public health.

As of November 13, the outbreak has affected 104 individuals across 14 states, resulting in 34 hospitalizations, one death, and four cases of severe kidney complications. Colorado reported the highest number of infections, followed by Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Utah, Missouri, Wyoming, Kansas, Michigan, Iowa, North Carolina, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin.

FDA Investigation and Health Risks

The FDA has launched an investigation into the outbreak, focusing on a Taylor Farms processing center and an onion grower in Washington state. While FDA testing found a harmful E. coli strain in one onion sample, it did not match the outbreak strain, leaving some questions unanswered about the exact source of contamination.

“The true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses. This is because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for E. coli.” – CDC

The bacterial strain involved, Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, can cause severe foodborne illness. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. In some cases, particularly in young children, the infection can lead to severe kidney injury requiring urgent medical attention.

McDonald’s Response and Current Status

McDonald’s has taken swift action by removing the slivered onions from its operations in affected states. The company has assured customers that diced onions are not implicated in the outbreak. The FDA has stated that there is no ongoing food safety concern at McDonald’s, as the contaminated onions are no longer in circulation and are past their shelf life.

“reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.” FDA

The affected McDonald’s locations were primarily in Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming, and parts of Iowa, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Utah. Consumers who have recently eaten at McDonald’s in these areas and are experiencing symptoms are advised to seek medical care immediately.

Ongoing Investigation and Precautions

As the outbreak investigation continues, the FDA and CDC are working to identify any additional cases and prevent the illness from spreading further. The risk of new infections is currently considered low due to the recall and removal of the affected onions from circulation. However, consumers are urged to remain vigilant and report adverse events to healthcare providers.

This incident reminds us of the importance of food safety measures and the potential consequences of foodborne illnesses. As the investigation unfolds, authorities will continue to provide updates and guidance to ensure public health and safety.

Sources:

https://dnyuz.com/2024/11/15/mcdonalds-onion-recall-update-as-fda-sets-highest-risk-level/

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o157h7-onions-october-2024

https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/outbreaks/e-coli-O157.html

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