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McDonald's Identifies Source of E. Coli Outbreak: Slivered Onions, Not Quarter Pounder Patties

McDonald's Identifies Source of E. Coli Outbreak: Slivered Onions, Not Quarter Pounder Patties
Monday 28 October 2024 - 08:05
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In a recent statement, McDonald's has clarified that the beef patties used in their Quarter Pounders are not the source of the E. coli outbreak that has affected multiple states. Testing conducted by the Colorado Agriculture Department found no traces of E. coli in the patties, leading the company to rule them out as a potential cause.

The outbreak, which has been linked to slivered onions from a single supplier, Taylor Farms Colorado Springs, prompted McDonald's to cease sourcing onions from this supplier indefinitely. The decision came shortly after the company removed the contaminated onions from its supply chain. These onions were distributed to various locations, including airports in Colorado, Kansas, and Wyoming, which may explain the spread of illnesses across state lines.

McDonald's is optimistic about the availability of fresh beef patties for their Quarter Pounders, with plans to resume normal distribution this week. However, for the time being, all 900 restaurants that received onions from Taylor Farms will continue to serve Quarter Pounders without onions.

The E. coli strain involved in this outbreak, O157:H7, is known for producing a potent toxin that can severely damage the intestinal lining. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) first reported the outbreak on Tuesday, following an unusual increase in E. coli cases linked to McDonald's. The CDC began its investigation after Colorado health officials alerted them to the situation.

As of now, 75 individuals across 13 states have been infected, with one reported death and 22 hospitalizations. Some patients have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure. In response to the outbreak, several other restaurant chains, including Taco Bell and Illegal Pete's, have also halted the use of onions in their menus as a precautionary measure.

The FDA is currently investigating Taylor Farms as a potential source of the contamination, while the company has initiated a recall of four raw onion products. As the situation develops, McDonald's and health officials continue to monitor the outbreak closely, ensuring the safety of their food supply and the well-being of their customers.

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