The Centers for Disease Control have stated that E. coli, a type of bacteria, can lead to various health problems including diarrhea, urinary tract infections, respiratory problems and other illnesses. This is why the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a public safety alert for ground beef that may be contaminated with this harmful bacteria.
The affected ground beef products were produced by Greater Omaha Packing Company and have tested positive for E. coli. These products were sold on March 28 and have a use or freeze-by date of April 22. While no illnesses have been reported so far, individuals who have purchased these products are urged to return them for a refund as soon as possible.
Despite the contamination, a recall was not necessary as the products had already been removed from shelves by the company. However, consumers should take precautions when handling ground beef to prevent further contamination and ensure their safety. The USDA recommends washing hands thoroughly before and after handling raw meat, using separate cutting boards for meat and vegetables, and cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F before consuming it.
For more information on this topic or any other questions you may have about food safety, please refer to the provided link or contact your local health department directly.
