Ground Beef Recall 2024: What You Need to Know
The recall involves both fresh and frozen ground beef products. Fresh products are marked with a “use by” date of November 14, 2024, while frozen products bear a production date of October 22, 2024. These items are identified by the establishment number “EST. 2574B” within the USDA mark of inspection.
The contamination was discovered after the Minnesota Department of Agriculture linked an outbreak of illnesses to ground beef from Wolverine Packing Co. A sample collected during the investigation tested positive for E. coli O157:H7, a potentially deadly bacterium.
E. Coli Ground Beef: Illnesses Reported
As of November 20, 2024, 15 cases of illness have been confirmed, all occurring in Minnesota. The onset of symptoms ranged from November 2 to November 10, 2024. Affected individuals reported consuming ground beef shortly before becoming ill. FSIS continues to collaborate with state agencies in Minnesota to trace the source of the contamination and ensure public safety.
Symptoms of E. Coli Infection
E. coli O157:H7 can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, including:
- Bloody diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Dehydration
Symptoms typically appear 2–8 days after exposure, with an average onset of 3–4 days. While most individuals recover within a week, some, especially young children and older adults, may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe kidney condition marked by:
- Easy bruising
- Reduced urine output
- Pale skin
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
Restaurants Urged to Act
The recalled ground beef products were distributed to restaurants nationwide, raising concerns that some may still be in refrigerators or freezers. FSIS advises restaurants to:
- Dispose of affected products immediately.
- Return items to the place of purchase if applicable.
- Refrain from serving these products to patrons.
Consumer Safety Tips for Ground Beef
FSIS emphasizes the importance of safe food preparation to prevent E. coli infections. Follow these guidelines when handling ground beef:
- Cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a food thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat.
- Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat separate from ready-to-eat foods.
For detailed guidance, refer to the USDA’s Safe Food Temperature Chart.
How to Check for Affected Products
Consumers can verify if their ground beef is part of the recall by checking the product list and labels provided by FSIS:
If you suspect you have consumed contaminated ground beef, consult a healthcare provider, especially if symptoms develop.
A Broader Context of Food Safety
This E. coli outbreak highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring food safety across the supply chain. Wolverine Packing Co., a family-owned business for nearly 90 years, has pledged to intensify its quality control measures and supplier audits to prevent future incidents. The company is working closely with FSIS to resolve the issue.
Contacts for Assistance
Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Wolverine Packing Co.’s representative, Don Tanner, at 248-762-1533. Additionally, food safety inquiries can be directed to the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854 or via email at MPHotline@usda.gov.
